Dr. Rocha studies bacterial pathogenesis and currently her project is focused on host-pathogen interactions. Specifically, she is studying the effects of Exoenzyme S (ExoS), a type III secreted virulence factor from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, on macrophage function. Previous studies have shown that ExoS interferes with signal transduction pathways mediated by the Ras superfamily of low molecular G proteins. Members of this family are known regulators of the actin cytoskeleton and thus of important cellular processes (e.g. phagocytosis, motility and adherence among others). She is therefore interested in elucidating the cellular mechanisms responsible for the effects of ExoS on macrophage adherence. Understanding how P. aeruginosa affects macrophages, which are key components of the innate immune response, will provide insight into the mechanisms used by Pseudomonas to establish infections and cause disease.
Degrees
- Ph.D. in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine – Medical University of South Carolina
- B.S. in Microbiology – Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, DC. Colombia