Carmen Herrera

Carmen Herrera is an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Infectious Diseases at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial pathogenesis, particularly in Gram-negative bacteria. She leads projects investigating lipid A modifications in lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and their role in antibiotic resistance and immune evasion. Her work is conducted within Dr. Trent’s Laboratory, where she explores how bacterial membrane structures contribute to virulence and survival in hostile environments.

Research Interests: Molecular mechanisms of glycerophospholipid transport across Gram-negative cell envelopes, genetic basis for membrane remodeling in pathogenic bacteria, and antibiotic resistance mechanisms.

Recent Research Trends: Dr. Herrera’s publications highlight advancements in understanding how bacterial pathogens modify their outer membrane components to resist polymyxins and other antimicrobials. Her studies on Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae have revealed novel regulatory pathways and structural adaptations critical for survival under stress or antibiotic exposure.

Labs/Teams: Trent Lab, a leading group in bacterial membrane biology and pathogenesis research.