Defining the bacterial stress response to hypochlorous and hypothiocyanous acids by combining molecular genetics and novel mass spectrometry approaches

Bacteria encounter the antibacterial oxidants hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN) upon interaction with phagocytic cells of the innate immune system. In this project, the student will combine molecular genetics and advanced mass spectrometry to characterise the response of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa to these thiol-reactive agents, the aim being to elucidate HOCl and HOSCN- specific protection and repair mechanisms in this opportunistic pathogen. As well as being mechanistically interesting, such a study might identify biomarkers of HOCl stress that could be developed into a clinical diagnostic tool for use in studying the impact of clinical interventions on chronic infections.

For information contact: [Email Address Removed]

To apply for this studentship, please visit the Imperial College & Royal Holloway BBSRC DTP website: http://www.imperial.ac.uk/bbsrc-doctoral-training-partnership/