GRK 2719:  Proteases in pathogen and host: importance in inflammation and infection – RTG-PRO

• Subject Area: Microbiology, Virology and Immunology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 443535983

The Research Training Group RTG-PRO focuses on the study of proteases – enzymes that selectively break down proteins – and their role in inflammation and infection. Central to the program is the concept of precision proteolysis, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in both host and pathogen, as well as for their interaction. The research targets extracellular serine proteases of Gram-positive bacteria and CE-clan proteases from Gram-negative pathogens. Another major focus is on intracellular proteolytic systems: the bacterial Clp machinery and the host's ubiquitin-proteasome system as well as endo-lysosomal proteases. These systems are key regulators of protein quality and homeostasis, immune responses, and the control of inflammation and infection. The research centers on three clinically highly relevant pathogens – Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis – and studies humans and mice as host organisms. The program is structured around three core research areas: A) Investigating how proteases regulate inflammation (type 1 vs. type 2) and influence bacterial colonization and invasion B) Analyzing proteolytic mechanisms in cellular protein homeostasis C) Characterizing substrates and structure–function relationships of selected proteases Building on the strong interdisciplinary collaboration of the first funding period, new cross-cutting priorities have emerged for the second phase. These include elucidating the role of S. aureus proteases in the pathogen's intracellular persistence, exploring the functional diversity of protease families, and identifying mechanisms with therapeutic potential. The qualification program is a central element of GRK-PRO and on par with its scientific objectives. It combines proven and innovative formats and has demonstrated high effectiveness. Doctoral candidates are selected through a transparent, standardized process. The international PhD researchers work closely together across disciplines, take on responsibility, and actively shape their scientific environment. They are supported by a structured supervision system and a targeted training program. Key areas include computational data analysis and scientific writing. Participants continuously contribute their experiences and ideas, helping to further develop the program. GRK-PRO combines cutting-edge research with effective early career support. It fosters interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration, strengthens scientific independence, and provides an excellent foundation for ambitious careers in academia and industry.

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Universität Greifswald
• Participating Institution: Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut; Bundesforschungsinstitut für Tiergesundheit
• Spokesperson: Professorin Dr. Barbara Bröker
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Ali Alexander Aghdassi; Professor Dr. Uwe T. Bornscheuer; Dr. Clemens Cammann; Professorin Dr. Anca Dorhoi; Professor Dr. Jens Fielitz; Professor Dr. Sven Hammerschmidt; Dr. Silva Holtfreter; Professor Dr. Lars Kaderali; Professor Dr. Jan Krönke; Professorin Dr. Elke Beate Krüger; Professor Dr. Michael Lammers; Professorin Dr. Ulrike Seifert; Privatdozent Dr. Matthias Sendler; Kristin Surmann, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Uwe Völker