Molekular mechanism of horizontal gene transfer in pathogenic epsilon-proteobacteria

• Applicant: Dr. Kerstin Stingl
• Subject Area: Parasitology and Biology of Tropical Infectious Disease Pathogens
• Term: from 2010 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 175974972

DNA uptake from the environment is the first step for acquisition of new genetic material, including antibiotic resistances as well as virulence traits, enabling bacteria to adapt to changing host environments. In this project, the molecular mechanism of DNA uptake in ε-proteobacteria will be addressed in vitro and in vivo. Taking two important human pathogens, the gastric cancer agent, Helicobacter pylori, and the major cause for human diarrhoea, Campylobacter jejuni, the molecular process of DNA transport across outer and inner membrane will be visualized on the single cell level. Gene products previously identified to be involved in natural transformation in these pathogens will be functionally characterized in respect to their specific role in this multi-step process. Since both pathogens are evolutionary close relatives, but implement completely different DNA uptake systems, they serve as model organisms to decipher differences and common principles of Gram-negative bacterial DNA uptake. This knowledge will give more insight into the molecular mechanism of DNA uptake and may lead to the rational development of inhibitors for natural transformation, reducing bacterial host adaptation and spread of resistances.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants