Phase-variable epigenetic regulators in bacterial veterinary pathogens. This project aims to identify phasevarion regulated genes in the major bacterial swine pathogens Streptococcus suis and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Both species contain randomly switching epigenetic regulators that control expression of multiple genes by epigenetic mechanisms. Identifying phasevarion controlled genes will inform and direct future vaccine development for important livestock species.
Understanding the origin, epidemiology and transmission threat of chlamydial infections between Australian native animals and livestock. Chlamydial infections of koalas and livestock cause diseases of significant economic and environmental concern. Molecular analysis of livestock and native animal strains will improve understanding of the factors associated with transmission of these important pathogens, improving the ability to manage affected Australian animal populations.
Slipping out unnoticed: a new bacterial lipoprotein transport system. Worldwide markets for biotechnology-derived products are projected to grow to at least $50 billion per year for the next 10 years. The cornerstone of biotechnology is the production of proteins. The applicant has discovered a new pathway for protein production in bacteria. The primary objective of this project is to use a diverse array of biochemical and biophysical techniques to understand how this new protein production pl ....Slipping out unnoticed: a new bacterial lipoprotein transport system. Worldwide markets for biotechnology-derived products are projected to grow to at least $50 billion per year for the next 10 years. The cornerstone of biotechnology is the production of proteins. The applicant has discovered a new pathway for protein production in bacteria. The primary objective of this project is to use a diverse array of biochemical and biophysical techniques to understand how this new protein production platform works. We will also assess this new pathway for the production of proteins of interest to the biotechnology sector. This project expects to determine how this system can be exploited for use in the growing Australian bioeconomy.Read moreRead less
YhcB, a crucial player in the control of bacterial cell envelope biogenesis. All life depends on a cell envelope to enclose the chemical reactions that make life possible. But how do cell envelopes grow? How each component of the cell envelope is incorporated into the envelope at the right amount and in the right time to prevent cell death, has been a longstanding question in bacteriology. Using a unique combination of high through put genetic screens and biochemical approaches, this project wil ....YhcB, a crucial player in the control of bacterial cell envelope biogenesis. All life depends on a cell envelope to enclose the chemical reactions that make life possible. But how do cell envelopes grow? How each component of the cell envelope is incorporated into the envelope at the right amount and in the right time to prevent cell death, has been a longstanding question in bacteriology. Using a unique combination of high through put genetic screens and biochemical approaches, this project will characterise a key regulator of cell envelope growth in Gram-negative bacteria. Knowledge arising from this research will provide insight into a fundamental process in bacteria, will develop new technology to probe protein interactions, and will provide novel avenues to solve infection in plants, humans and animals.Read moreRead less