Matthew F. Barber

This study investigates the evolutionary divergence of TREM-1 in mammals, identifying positive selection and structural implications for immune function.

The paper traces the evolutionary origin of a cryptic antimicrobial peptide in lactoferrin, showing gradual enrichment of cationic and hydrophobic amino acids leading to enhanced bactericidal activity.

This study shows that truncating the Rel protein in S. aureus enhances tolerance to antimicrobial fatty acids by altering cell envelope structure through the SigB-SarA pathway.

This study identifies mutations in potassium transporter genes conferring polyamine resistance in S. aureus and links them to broader antibiotic resistance.

This study shows that Malassezia sympodialis reduces Staphylococcus aureus colonization on human skin and identifies Rel variants that confer antibiotic tolerance in response to fungal antagonism.

This study identifies rapid evolution of primate type 2 immune response factors, including IL13 and eosinophil granule proteins, linked to asthma susceptibility in humans.

This study investigates the evolutionary role of lactoferrin's antimicrobial functions in primate and human genetic conflicts, showing evidence of positive selection and links to modern genetic variation.