Cell Wall Biosynthesis in ESKAPE Pathogens – a Mechanistic Characterization of Class B Penicillin-binding-proteins

This project is offered as part of the Medical Research Foundation National PhD Training Programme in AMR: https://www.findaphd.com/search/PhDDetails.aspx?CAID=3755

Penicillin Binding Protein 3 (PBP3) is an essential component of the divisome, catalyzing cross-linking of cell wall peptidoglycan. In general, PBPs are characterized by their covalent binding of β-lactams to a catalytic serine residue (e.g., penicillins and cephalosporins) with a typically fast ‘on rate’ and slow ‘off rate’, blocking peptidoglycan cross-linking capabilities and triggering cell death. A number of β-lactams have the Class B PBP3 as their primary target and as such, particularly for chronic infection, mutation leading to resistance has emerged. We are keen both to understand the mechanism of resistance driven by different antibiotics, the fitness cost associated with resistance and how best to develop new more effective antimicrobial to overcome this. In addition, mechanistic and structural insight into transition state analogues may further inform effective antibiotic discovery with research partners in South Africa (H3D Cape Town) where there is opportunity for collaborative research and possible exchange visits. The aim being to explore opportunities to discover 21st century alternatives to penicillin. The successful candidate will be enrolled in the Medical Research Council Doctoral Training Programme at Warwick, which will provide additional training opportunities and local student cohort activities.

Apply here: https://postgrad.warwick.ac.uk/SWIFT.web/skins/pgapp/login.aspx

As part of your application, you need to Identify that the School of Life Sciences will be your primary host but linked to the MRC DTP (WMS) https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/med/study/mrcdtp/apply/ and funded by Medical Research Foundation National PhD Training Programme in AMR Research Additionally, under the ‘Research Details’ section, please indicate that you are applying for a Medical Research Foundation National PhD Training Programme in AMR Research funded project and give the project title and names of the supervisors. For any queries, please contact [Email Address Removed] or [Email Address Removed]