Inspired by molecules from plants, fungi, and bacteria, the Cech Research Group seeks to discover new treatments for infectious disease. We develop novel mass spectrometry metabolomics approaches to understand the complex (often synergistic) interactions that occur when mixtures of molecules interact with biological systems. This work is conducted through many collaborations and with support from the National Institutes of Health. We believe that the most creative research is accomplished by a maximally diverse team of people. Our group strives to create an inclusive environment where our members feel inspired and supported to create and innovate together.
Research
Understanding Bacterial Communication in the Skin Microbiome
Understanding Bacterial Communication in the Skin Microbiome
When we talk about bacteria, there’s a lot of focus on the “bad” bacteria (pathogens) that cause infections. However, bacteria can also be helpful! The human skin is coated with bacteria (called commensals).
Predicting and Preventing Adverse Interactions between Drugs and Dietary Supplements
Predicting and Preventing Adverse Interactions between Drugs and Dietary Supplements
Our goal with this project is to help support safe use of these dietary supplements, by determining whether they might interact with pharmaceutical drugs consumed at the same time.
Developing New Treatments for Drug Resistant Bacterial Infections
Developing New Treatments for Drug Resistant Bacterial Infections
According to the Centers for Disease Control, antibiotic resistant bacterial infections are responsible for 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths each year in the US alone. The financial burden of such infections on our healthcare system is estimated at $4.6 billion. Many of the most successful drugs for treating these diseases come from fungi…
Creating New Tools for Natural Products Drug Discovery
Creating New Tools for Natural Products Drug Discovery
In the early 1970s, scientist Tu Youyou, leading a secret research group in China called Project 523, discovered artemisinin, now the world’s most effective treatment for malaria. Dr. Tu and her team discovered this molecule from sweet annie (Artemisia annua), a plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat fevers…
Novel Approaches to Study Synergy in Botanical Medicines
Novel Approaches to Study Synergy in Botanical Medicines
We have developed a novel approach “synergy-directed fractionation”, which employs mass spectrometry and synergy assays in concert to track bioactive constituents as they are isolated from a mixture. We used the medicinal plant goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) as a test case for this approach…
Natural Products for the Treatment of Drug Resistant Infections
Natural Products for the Treatment of Drug Resistant Infections
New strategies to combat drug-resistant bacterial infections
Influence of Endophytes on Bioactive Constituent Profile of Botanical Medicines
Influence of Endophytes on Bioactive Constituent Profile of Botanical Medicines
There is growing awareness that the bioactive constituent profile of medicinal plants can be profoundly influenced by endophyte infection. Endophytes are microorganisms (typically fungi or bacteria) that infect plant tissues, often engaged in symbiotic interactions with their hosts…
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Echinacea purpurea
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Echinacea purpurea
The Centers for Disease Control reports that Echinacea is the third most commonly used herbal medicine in the US. This botanical is typically employed for treatment of upper respiratory infections, which afflict adults 2-4 times per year, and cost over $10 billion in annual medical costs…
Media
‘YES, AND CAFE’ PODCAST – Dr. Nadja Cech and Dr. Omar Ali speak with a diverse lineup of guests to dig into how the themes of play, openness, and working across boundaries and identities enhance their work, their research, and their lives. ‘Yes, and’ is the powerful, intentional, and creative practice of building with other people. The name comes from improvisational theater. So, what is it? One: paying attention. Two: affirming. And three: building on what others give you. That’s it! Yes, and. Listen here.
TEDxGreensboro’s KEEP IT SIMPLE event explored the principle of simplicity in the context of our complex world, clarifying the complicated to find out if and when the simplest solutions are the best ones.