Justin Caserta Email: jac86@pitt.edu Lab: McClane Lab In the McClane Lab, we study the role of the Gram positive anaerobic spore-former, Clostridium perfringens, and its associated toxins in GI disease. Specifically, our research centers on the action of C. perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) and its role Type A food poisoning, the 3rd lead cause of food poisoning in the US. My project focuses on characterizing the molecular mechanism of action of CPE. Specifically, I am studying the role lipid rafts in CPE-host interactions and cytotoxicity. My project also includes studying the Ca2+-dependent pathways involved in CPE-induced cell death.