DNA Replication fork processing and recovery in living Escherichia coli cells. DNA is the genetic blueprint for all life. When cells divide their DNA has to be copied completely, and exactly, to avoid mutations or death. When the process of copying breaks down, the DNA needs to be repaired and the process of copying restarted. This project will investigate living cells, to understand the mechanisms and pathways involved.
Importance of Wzx flippase specificity for O-antigen diversity. The Wzx protein flips subunits of the polysaccharide O antigen (O-units) across the cell membrane on their way to the cell wall. The aim of this project is to determine the specificity that different Wzx flippases have for O unit structure. Previous research has shown that there is much more specificity than previously thought, making Wzx a very interesting protein. Wzx flippases vary enormously in sequence, presumably reflecting th ....Importance of Wzx flippase specificity for O-antigen diversity. The Wzx protein flips subunits of the polysaccharide O antigen (O-units) across the cell membrane on their way to the cell wall. The aim of this project is to determine the specificity that different Wzx flippases have for O unit structure. Previous research has shown that there is much more specificity than previously thought, making Wzx a very interesting protein. Wzx flippases vary enormously in sequence, presumably reflecting the diversity of sugars and linkages in O units. The significance lies in the role of these polysaccharides in interactions with the environment, including host-pathogen interactions and immune responses. The outcome will be a new understanding of the export specificity of O-antigens and also capsules, both of which make very good vaccines. Read moreRead less
Molecular characterisation of hypervirulence and the infectious cycle in Clostridium difficile. Gut diseases caused by the bacterium Clostridium difficile are a significant animal and public health problem in Australia and many other countries. This project will allow us to understand how this bacterium causes disease, leading to the development of much needed preventative and treatment strategies for animals and human patients.
Understanding how bacteria form multicellular biofilm communities on surfaces: the role of cyclic diguanylate as a potent biofilm activator. Bacteria usually exist as multicellular communities called biofilms when attached to surfaces, frequently to the detriment of the environment, industry and health. This project will explore the strategies bacteria use to switch from living as free-floating, individual cells to forming biofilms by studying how bacteria 'switch on' their biofilm genes.