Dr. Amy Barczak

Biography

Amy Barczak is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at Harvard University, focusing on the molecular pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The Barczak lab aims to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the cellular and molecular events that drive Mtb's success as a pathogen. The lab uses cellular and mouse models to explore Mtb's virulence factors and their interactions with host factors, which shape infection outcomes. Macrophages play a key role in recognizing and responding to invading microbes, yet Mtb has developed mechanisms to survive and grow within these infected cells. One crucial aspect of virulent mycobacteria is their capacity to damage the phagosomal membrane, which is believed to benefit the bacterium during host-pathogen interactions. Current interests in the lab include defining the consequences of phagosomal membrane damage on innate immune responses to Mtb and identifying the host factors that constrain repair of this damage. Furthermore, there is a significant focus on the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in tuberculosis pathogenesis, challenging the notion of ECM as merely an inert scaffold. The lab investigates matrix damage and remodeling as part of the tissue damage occurring in the progression of tuberculosis. Amy's research also examines the individual matrix enzymes that contribute to inflammation and tissue damage during the early stages of TB disease, exploring how ECM remodeling can lead to fibrosis and permanent lung damage.

Research Interests

Experience