Computational prediction and analysis of subcellular localization of bacterial proteins

Jennifer Gardy’s research is directed at predicting the location of proteins in disease-causing bacteria that could be targeted as potential vaccines or antibiotics. Jennifer developed PSORT-B, a software program that examines the biological features of proteins to predict where they most likely reside. It is the most precise software currently available for this purpose. Using data mining techniques that help establish relationships and identify patterns, Jennifer is fine-tuning the software to make it more accurate in predicting protein locations and functions. She is also developing modified versions of the program for specific groups of bacteria. Her aim is to make PSORT-B the leading software program for identifying vaccine and antibiotic targets.