RESEARCH INTERESTS
Nullomers. Our lab identified and studies the shortest sequences absent from nature (DNA, RNA, Protein). We coined the term Nullomers for the shortest sequences absent from a species or group of species, and the term Primes for the shortest sequences absent from all of nature. This field has blossomed internationally over the past decade with our lab working on cancer drugs derived from Nullomer peptides, and patenting Nullomer Markers for use in tagging samples like forensic DNA swabs.
The Sewagome. We consume food and beverages from all over the world, but deposit our excrement in a common, branched capillary bed, that can be thought of as a Megacolon. Our lab is interested in this ecosystem from a public health and environmental perspective. We have established a collaboration with Boise City, the Health Department and area schools to monitor viral (COVID-19) and other pathogen sequences in wastewater. We are most interested in optimizing these analyses by studying the ecology and genetics of wastewater.
HIV and Genome Inoculation. More than 8% of the human genome is made of retroviruses that have successfully penetrated the immortal human germ cell lineage (sperm or eggs) to become “human DNA.” We are interested in the process of converting dangerous invaders into good genomic citizens. Viral genes code for the placenta and can aid in immunity against other viruses; we are looking for ways to exploit this pathway for genomic vaccination, and to improve HIV testing.
Advanced Forensic DNA Technology. Through our work with innocence organizations and the police, we have helped free more than three-dozen wrongfully convicted prisoners, and helped police identify new suspects in 6 of those cases. Funded by US Department of Justice, we are using cutting-edge DNA to help reveal long-hidden truth.