Chemical genetics of clathrin-independent endocytosis and retrograde transport — identification and molecular analysis of small molecule inhibitors of toxin entry into cells

Terrorists are more likely to obtain and use a biological weapon than a nuclear one, according to U.S Congress. Toxins such as ricin, or Shiga-like toxins produced by certain strains of E. coli, can be deadly and no antidotes for these dangerous toxins themselves have yet been found. Instead, Garcia Castillo is working to identify molecules able to protect our cells from their attack. Her work could lead to a cure for these constant threats in bioterrorism and infectious disease.