Current Research

cover-heme2The Hegg lab has a long-standing interest in the biosynthesis and activation of small molecules, including O2, H2, N2O, and H2O2.  Very often the enzymes involved in these reactions require metal cofactors for activity.  At the same time, however, these metal cofactors are also potentially toxic if they are not maintained in proper homeostasis.  Our research focuses on cofactor transport and regulation, as well as the catalytic reaction mechanisms employed by these unique metalloenzymes.  

There are currently four major projects in the Hegg lab.

  1. Elucidating the biosynthesis, transport, and regulation of heme A. MORE
  2. Unraveling the secrets of biological H2 production. MORE
  3. Improving the digestibility of lignocellulosic biomass for the production of biofuels.  MORE
  4. Using stable isotopes to study metabolic processes. MORE