Mechanisms of Streptococcus colonisation and pathogenesis

Bacteria within the genus Streptococcus have evolved to become exquisitely adapted to the colonisation of humans and other animals. These bacteria predominantly live in harmony with their hosts, but all have capacity to cause disease. For example, Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes >600 million human infections each year, including severe systemic disease such as necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating disease). Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of invasive disease in neonates, and is responsible for life-threatening infections in the elderly and immune-compromised individuals. Oral Streptococcus bacteria are able to colonise heart valves and cause cardiovascular condition infective endocarditis, with a mortality rate of <30%.

This project forms part of an exciting programme of research to decipher the molecular basis of Streptococcus colonisation and pathogenesis. The objectives of this project are to utilise molecular biology-, biochemical- and cell culture-based techniques to determine the molecular mechanisms by which Streptococcus bacteria are able to associate with host tissues, modulate the immune response, and interact with other microbes to form polymicrobial communities. Identification of the molecular determinants that influence Streptococcus colonisation and pathogenesis could lead to the development of novel strategies to combat streptococcal disease. This project will therefore provide an excellent opportunity to develop a wide range of interdisciplinary skills within a vibrant research team addressing significant biomedical problems.