Kayunta Johnson-winters

Biography

 Kayunta Johnson-Winters is an assistant professor within the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. She began her appointment in August of 2010.  The conducted research within her group spans from molecular biology techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (pcr) and site-directed mutagenesis, to protein expression and purification.  The Johnson-Winters group interests include mechanistic studies of F420 cofactor dependent enzymes, using kinetic isotope effects methods, as well as steady-state and pre-steady state kinetic methods. This class of enzymes is unique, involving specifically hydride transfer reactions.  The F420 cofactor has implications with tuberculosis disease (TB), folate biosynthesis, antibiotic biosynthesis and energy production.  As a member of the Biochemistry Division, Kayunta has taught, Biochemistry I (Chem 4311), Biochemistry II (Chem 4312), Principles of Biochemistry (5318), as well as SCIE 3302 (General Chemistry for Education Majors).  Kayunta is also a dedicated Freshman Interest Group (FIG) instructor for the College of Science. 

Research Interest

 Mechanistic enzymology of F420 cofactor dependent enzymes. The mechanism and enzymology of F420 Cofactor dependent enzymes are largely unexplored. The goal our work is to provide experimental information for the proposed mechanism of FGD and Fno using site directed mutagenesis, steady-state and pre-steady state kinetic methods in order to develop a mechanistic model for this unique class of enzymes.