This inventor holds 2 USPTO granted patents. Top assignee: Princeton University. Active years: 2007-2009.
Location History:
- Princeton, NJ (US) (2007)
- Somerville, MA (US) (2009)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2007-2009
Title: Michiko E Taga: Innovator in Autoinducer Research
Introduction
Michiko E Taga is a notable inventor based in Somerville, MA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of biochemistry, particularly in the study of autoinducers and their transport mechanisms. With a total of 2 patents, her work has implications for drug discovery and the understanding of bacterial communication.
Latest Patents
Taga's latest patents include groundbreaking inventions related to crystals comprising apo-LsrB and holo-LsrB. The structure of holo-LsrB identifies a tetrahydroxytetrahydrofuran derived from 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentanedione (DPD) as the active autoinducer-2 (AI-2) molecule. The X-ray crystallographic data from this research can be utilized in drug discovery methods. Additionally, her invention provides AI-2 analogs based on this discovery, as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing those analogs. Another significant patent involves the discovery of the lsr operon, the genes within it, and the polypeptides encoded by these genes. This invention also includes strains with altered expression levels of the polypeptides relative to wild type cells, which can transport an autoinducer into the cell at a higher level than wild type cells. Furthermore, it includes methods for identifying compounds that modulate the transport of the autoinducer into cells.
Career Highlights
Taga is affiliated with Princeton University, where she continues her research and innovation in the field. Her work has garnered attention for its potential applications in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Taga has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Bonnie L Bassler and Frederick M Hughson. These collaborations have further enriched her research and contributed to advancements in the understanding of autoinducers.
Conclusion
Michiko E Taga's contributions to the field of biochemistry, particularly in the area of autoinducers, highlight her innovative spirit and dedication to scientific advancement. Her patents and research continue to pave the way for future discoveries in drug development and bacterial communication.