John Ribis

For many years epigenetic DNA modification in prokaryotes was thought to be restricted exclusively to restriction modification systems. This paradigm is beginning to shift as we learn that these epigenetic changes can cause major alterations in bacterial gene expression. My research is focused on understanding the role of DNA methylation in regulating genes required for the major nosocomial pathogen Clostridioides difficile to form infectious spores, tolerate stress, and regulate genes important for virulence.