Characterising the link between virulence and membrane functionality in Staphylococcus aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen that is both versatile and adaptable. The evolution of increased virulence and resistance is a signature of this bacterium with the emergence of distinct strains adapted for transmission in hospital and in community settings. For example, the evolution and emergence of community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) has led to strains that might be better adapted to transmission via skin survival and niche competition.

The features of S. aureus that promote skin survival include adhesins for colonisation of keratinocytes and a complex regulatory network that coordinates expression of cell wall and capsule biosynthesis and its subsequent modification. This network promotes resistance to antimicrobial peptides, proteases and lipids secreted by keratinocytes. Our recent studies of skin antimicrobial factors targeting the S. aureus cell membrane have identified a novel link between expression of virulence factors and survival.

The proposed research project will seek to unravel the regulatory network coordinating the S. aureus response to membrane-targeting skin antimicrobials. This will combine a molecular genetics approach using RNAseq of strains under antimicrobial challenge combined with cell and membrane physiology studies of specific mutants. Improving our understanding of adaptation in S. aureus could ultimately lead to the identification of novel therapeutics.


Training:
The student engaged in the research will enter a lab with skills in genomics, transcriptomics, molecular biology and bacterial physiology. Training will be provided to enable the student to develop skills in these areas relating specifically to the study. In addition training will be available in bioinformatics. Attendance at scientific meetings and visits to collaborating labs is actively encouraged.