Awaking clostridial spores – understanding germination mechanisms (PECKF15DTP)

C.botulinum is a dangerous foodborne pathogen responsible for botulism, while C.sporogenes is a major cause of food spoilage. Both form heat-resistant spores that persist in the environment, and under favourable conditions germinate to form vegetative cells. Improved control of these clostridia requires better understanding of spore germination mechanisms. Spore germination is initiated following the recognition of germinants by specific germinant receptors (GRs). We recently completed the first functional characterisation of spore GRs in C.botulinum and C.sporogenes (Brunt et al., 2014; PLoS Pathogens). This work precisely defined GRs and their germinants to provide novel insights into germination. Amino acid stimulated germination required two tricistronic GRs in C.botulinum (acting in synergy, not alone), and one tricistronic GR in C. sporogenes (two other GRs contributing to the germination rate). This is the first time the mechanisms have been elucidated by which these clostridial spores, critical in food safety/food security, germinate and provides an important foundation in understanding emergence from lag phase. Importantly, we also showed that strain to strain variation in germination phenotype is governed by prior sporulation conditions. In this project, we will build on these intriguing findings and test the hypothesis that the germination phenotype is determined by the number and type of GRs present in the spore, and that this is governed by sporulation conditions and strain. Suitable training will be provided in molecular microbiology (e.g. genomics, deep RNA sequencing, quantitative PCR), targeted quantitative proteomics, and clostridial microbiology, and thus provide the student with skills sought after in academia, industry, health care and government.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition. Candidates will be interviewed on either the 13th, 14th or 15th January 2015.

The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three months professional internship (PIPS) during their study. The internship offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website: www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk