DC11: EHEC type IV pili structure, host adhesion and signalling

This PhD project will investigate the structural basis of bacterial pili-mediated adhesion, a critical process in host colonization and biofilm formation. Using an integrative structural biology approach combining cryo-electron microscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and advanced molecular modeling, the research will unravel the molecular architecture and conformational dynamics of pili and their interactions with host receptors. Complementary biophysical and functional assays will be employed to correlate structure with adhesion mechanisms, providing insights into how bacterial pili assemble, extend, and mediate binding under physiological conditions. The ultimate goal is to establish a detailed structural framework for understanding pili-driven adhesion, opening avenues for the development of anti-adhesion strategies to combat infections.

This project includes two mandatory secondments: 1-Three months in the first year at the Lund University (Sweden) to identify host or bacterial protein partners in interaction with pili by proteomic Mass Spectrometry analysis of extracted pili/whole bacteria. 2-Three months in Y3 with the industrial partner Corti (Norway) to develop and test anti adhesion strategies based on structural data.