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5. Malcolm Fraser

Malcolm Fraser

Professor of Biological Sciences

Fraser has discovered and patented a movable piece of genetic material called “piggyBac.” PiggyBac is a piece of DNA known as a transposon that can insert itself into the genetic machinery of a cell. In a new technique, Canadian and Scottish scientists used piggyBac to coax skin cells of mice and humans into a state that appears biologically identical to embryonic stem cells. Fraser’s studies in Notre Dame’s Laboratory of Molecular Virology merge research into molecular virology and transgenic engineering with the goal of advancing applications that favorably impact the human condition. A major thrust of his research is the use of molecular approaches to understanding and manipulating virus genetics in ways that permit beneficial transgenic alternation of the hosts to resist a given virus. He is currently exploring novel ribozyme approaches for thje suppression of Dengue virus in transgenic mosquitoes and for combating chronic human virus infections such as HIV and Hepatitis C. Fraser is the recipient of a $2.5 million grant from the Global Challenges in Global Health Initiative for a program to develop a new approach to controlling Dengue fever.

VIDEOS

ND NEWSWIRE ARTICLES

Hybrid silkworms spin stronger spider silk

Notre Dame and University of Wyoming scientists genetically engineer silkworms to produce artificial spider silk

Entomologist Fraser selected as ESA fellow

Working to eradicate dengue fever

Notre Dame research plays prominent role in alternative stem cell method

Biologist Fraser selected as AAAS fellow

Researcher receives $2.5 million Grand Challenges grant to combat dengue fever

ND EXPERTS

Dengue fever outbreak