Leah Bouthilette, PhD
Postdoctoral Researcher
Department of Chemistry
The Utah CTSI had the privilege of talking to Dr. Leah Bouthilette, a Spheres of Translation Across the Research Spectrum (STARS T32) training program recipient. We thank her for taking the time to answer our questions about her research on identifying characterizing compounds produced by bacteria.
What is your research area?
I am in the discovery section of CTSI and specialize in natural product chemistry. My research focuses on identifying and characterizing compounds produced by microorganisms, primarily bacteria, from Great Salt Lake. I study how these organisms biosynthesize these molecules, the ecological roles the compounds play, and their potential applications in human health, particularly as antimicrobial therapeutics.
What makes it relevant?
Natural products have long been a cornerstone of drug discovery, with many FDA-approved therapeutics derived from or inspired by them. The class of compounds I study, the bonnevillamides, show potent and selective activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a leading cause of global mortality. Understanding their biosynthesis provides the foundation for developing new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance by enabling targeted modification of the enzymes that build these molecules. combinatorial chemistry.
How does it help the world?
Antibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent public health threats worldwide. By uncovering how bacteria naturally create effective antimicrobials, my research helps pave the way for the discovery and development of new, more potent antibiotics. This work ultimately supports global efforts to treat infectious diseases and preserve the effectiveness of existing therapies.
How has the CTSI helped you?
Although I am in my first year of the program, the CTSI has already had a meaningful impact on my research and professional development. The funding support has enabled me to pursue experiments that would have been difficult to conduct otherwise. The program also provides exceptional opportunities to grow as a scientist and future faculty member, through presentations from CTSI leaders, structured coursework, and access to mentoring and outreach activities. These experiences are helping me define my long-term career goals and build the skills necessary to become an independent investigator.