The Becker lab uses a range of experimental approaches to address our research questions.
Many of these are highlighted as follows:
Mouse models of immunity. We use a variety of transgenic mice, pharmacological agents, adoptive transfer studies and CRISPR/Cas9 technology to perform advanced in vivo studies of tuberculosis infection and other immune responses. We have particular expertise in the analysis of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells and innate immune cells using flow cytometry and confocal imaging.
Tetramer technology. We use tetramer reagents to identify and track very rare populations of endogenous antigen-specific CD4+ T cells in mice. Through ongoing collaborations, we can facilitate the development of new tetramer reagents, adapt pre-existing tetramers for use with a variety of genetically tractable microbes, or develop human-specific tetramer reagents.
TB genetics and molecular biology. We have the tools to perform targeted mutations, genetic screens and complementation studies in M. tuberculosis. We are also equipped to perform protein biochemistry experiments and related mass spectrometry studies using mycobacteria or E. coli.
Single cell RNA sequencing. We are highly experienced with scRNA-seq studies. We perform encapsulation, library preparation and bioinformatic analysis in-house, including studies of ABSL3-contained murine tissues.