Elucidating the dynamics and antibiotic target potential of the bacterial cellular division complex by advanced microscopy
Lead Research Organisation:
Newcastle University
Department Name: Inst for Cell and Molecular Biosciences
Abstract
Keywords: Healthcare technologies, biophysics, novel imaging technologies
Abstract: Novel antimicrobials are urgently required to combat the rise of antibiotic resistance. Because pathogens have now evolved resistance to all known classes of antibiotic, the development of novel compounds with unique mode of action (MOA) is crucial. We will to solve this problem by leveraging advanced microscopy to develop new phenotypic readouts which enable rapid screening for novel MOAs, focussed on inhibitors of bacterial cell division, a key antimicrobial target.
Abstract: Novel antimicrobials are urgently required to combat the rise of antibiotic resistance. Because pathogens have now evolved resistance to all known classes of antibiotic, the development of novel compounds with unique mode of action (MOA) is crucial. We will to solve this problem by leveraging advanced microscopy to develop new phenotypic readouts which enable rapid screening for novel MOAs, focussed on inhibitors of bacterial cell division, a key antimicrobial target.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/N509528/1 | 01/10/2016 | 31/03/2022 | |||
| 1792226 | Studentship | EP/N509528/1 | 01/10/2016 | 30/09/2019 | Nicholas Tregidgo |
| Description | A greater understanding of the roles of two proteins and how they relate to each other and the wider physical mechanisms bacterial cell division. FtsZ which is one of the first proteins recruited to the site of cell division, and PBP2B a synthase (which is involved in synthesis of new cell wall as the bacteria divide). A publication manuscript has been accepted for publication as of this time. |
| Exploitation Route | Bacterial cell division is one of the best targets for antibiotics and antibiotic research. By furthering our understanding of the physical mechanisms of division, it will allow for rational identification of targets within the process of cell division, from which new drugs may be developed. |
| Sectors | Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |