D.J. Ferguson

D.J. Ferguson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Miami University, affiliated with the Cell, Molecular and Structural Biology Graduate Program. His research bridges microbial biochemistry and human health, focusing on anaerobic metabolism of quaternary amines and their implications in cardiovascular disease.

Research Interests: Dr. Ferguson's work centers on microbial one-carbon metabolism, particularly how gut microbiota process compounds like choline and carnitine into trimethylamine (TMA), a precursor to TMAO, which promotes atherosclerosis. He investigates both pathogenic and protective microbial pathways, including demethylation mechanisms that reduce TMA production. His studies extend to methylotrophic methanogens, exploring novel strains that metabolize quaternary amines into methane, with relevance to environmental science and energy.

Publication Trends: Over nearly three decades, his research has consistently advanced understanding of methyltransferase enzymes, methanogen metabolism, and gut microbial biochemistry. Recent work highlights the isolation of novel bacterial and archaeal strains, enzyme characterization, and metabolic pathway elucidation, primarily published in top-tier microbiology and biochemistry journals.

• Scientific Awards: No awards mentioned in the provided text.

Advising and Grants: Dr. Ferguson mentors graduate students and researchers, as evidenced by co-authorship with junior scientists on multiple publications. While specific grants are not listed, his sustained research output suggests active funding in microbiology and metabolic biochemistry. He leads a research program integrating molecular biology, enzymology, and microbial physiology.

Laboratories and Teams: His laboratory at Miami University focuses on anaerobic microbial systems, employing biochemical, genetic, and structural approaches to study methyltransferases and methanogenesis. The team collaborates across disciplines to explore the intersection of microbial metabolism, human health, and environmental impact.