Elucidating cell-surface protein complexes and their assembly in Bacteroidota

• Applicants: Julia Mahamid, Ph.D.; Dr. Mikhail Savitski, Ph.D.; Dr. Joel Selkrig
• Subject Area: Medical Microbiology and Mycology, Hygiene, Molecular Infection Biology ; Microbial Ecology and Applied Microbiology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 564421876

The project investigates how specific protein complexes on the surface of Phocaeicola vulgatus, a key human gut bacterium, are assembled and function. These complexes are crucial for nutrient uptake, colonization of the gut, and interactions with the host and other microbes. How these proteins are transported to and arranged on the bacterial surface remains unknown. By combining advanced techniques like proteomics, genetics, and high-resolution imaging, our research aims to uncover the full repertoire of these surface complexes, reveal the mechanisms behind their transport and assembly, and explore their role in gut colonization. The findings aim to deepen our understanding of gut microbial biology and could lead to novel ways to influence the microbiome for therapeutic purposes.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 2474: Illuminating gene functions in the human gut microbiome