Jimmy B. Feix

Jimmy B. Feix, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biophysics at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) since 1985. He holds a BS in Chemistry from Western Kentucky University (1976), a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Kentucky (1981), and completed postdoctoral training in Membrane Biophysics at MCW (1981-1986).

His research focuses on understanding peptide-membrane and protein-membrane interactions using advanced EPR spin labeling techniques. Key areas include studying the Pseudomonas aeruginosa toxin ExoU, its activation by ubiquitin, and development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to combat drug-resistant infections. His lab employs site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) EPR, DEER spectroscopy, and computational modeling to investigate membrane protein structures and dynamics.

Feix's work on ExoU elucidates mechanisms of toxin activation and membrane targeting, while his AMP research aims to design novel antibiotics targeting pathogens like MRSA and Pseudomonas. Recent studies explore mitigating levodopa degradation in Parkinson’s disease through EPR-guided drug development. His interdisciplinary approach bridges biophysics, biochemistry, and microbiology to address critical challenges in infectious disease and neuropharmacology.

Feix has contributed to over 30 peer-reviewed publications since 2017, focusing on EPR-based structural biology, bacterial effector proteins, and AMP mechanisms. His research has been funded through collaborative grants involving computational modeling, biochemical assays, and clinical applications.