Marcelo Tolmasky

Marcelo E. Tolmasky is a Professor in the Department of Biological Science at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), and serves as Director of the Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies (CABS) and the International Research Training Program for the Los Angeles Basin (MHIRT). He holds a PhD and MSc from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance, particularly targeting the aminoglycoside resistance enzyme AAC(6')-Ib and the dissemination of resistance genes via plasmids. He explores strategies to inhibit antibiotic resistance through antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule inhibitors.

Research Interests: Dr. Tolmasky investigates antibiotic resistance mechanisms in pathogens like Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae, including the role of human serum proteins in antibiotic efficacy and the genetic basis of plasmid stability. His work integrates molecular genetics, enzymology, and drug discovery to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Training & Collaboration: He leads the NIH-funded MHIRT program, fostering global health research training for students, partnering with institutions in Argentina, Thailand, and the U.S. His lab collaborates with researchers on topics like CRISPR-based therapies and novel antibiotic combinations.