Melissa Ellermann

Melissa Ellermann is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of South Carolina's McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. Her research investigates how diet-derived signals (e.g., lipids) and host-derived molecules (e.g., endocannabinoids) modulate gut microbiota physiology and host-pathogen interactions. She employs microbial genetics, in vitro models, and mouse studies to explore mechanisms affecting infection susceptibility and chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn's disease.

Her lab focuses on E. coli and Salmonella, examining how bacterial sensing of host compounds like 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) attenuates virulence pathways. This work bridges microbial behavior, intestinal immunity, and disease outcomes.

Dr. Ellermann leads the Ellermann Lab, advancing understanding of microbiome-host crosstalk in gastrointestinal health.