The Wittenberg lab conducts research in bioanalytical chemistry. We investigate a variety of molecular interactions that occur at biological surfaces, particularly lipid bilayer membranes. We aim to better understand how membrane structure and composition modulate protein-lipid interactions. Many of the protein-lipid interactions we study are crucial to the structure and function of the nervous system.
We also utilize a number of different analytical approaches to characterize chemical composition and monitor molecular transport dynamics in biological nanostructures such as bacterial outer membrane vesicles. Our work in this area also seeks to determine how outer membrane vesicles protect bacteria from antibiotics.
Another aspect of our research focuses on lipid oxidation and how it alters the chemical and physical properties of lipid bilayer membranes. We study the consequences of lipid oxidation on the interactions between biomembranes and solid substrates, and we use microfluidic approaches to investigate interactions between oxidized lipids and immune system receptors.
Our work makes use of several analytical techniques like optical microscopy, biosensing, particle analysis, optical spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, microfluidics, 3-D printing, and nanofabrication. Some of our projects involve collaborations with biochemists, medical researchers, and engineers, thus there are ample opportunities for multidisciplinary training and for students to make connections outside of chemistry. Interested undergraduates and graduate students are encouraged to contact Prof. Wittenberg to inquire about available research opportunities.