Respiratory tract pathogens and host/cell interactions as targets for intervention

Haemophilus influenzae is a bacterium that can cause severe illnesses, such as pneumonia, particularly in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute otitis media in preschool children. The increasing antibiotic resistance of this pathogen necessitates exploring its virulence mechanisms.

Our research focuses on uncovering the factors that cause H. influenzae to switch from a harmless commensal to a dangerous pathogen, by simulating various host conditions.

We utilize cutting-edge techniques, including proteomics and transcriptomics, to identify virulence factors exposed on the bacterial surface, particularly proteins that interact with the immune system.To improve the delivery of RNA vaccine antigens to antigen-presenting cells, we explore the Haemophilus-dependent activation of dendritic cells via the dectin-1 beta-glucan receptor, using lipid nanoparticles as adjuvants.

Additionally, we investigate how bacterial proteins are sorted into outer membrane vesicles released by H. influenzae, which can inform vaccine development.

Furthermore, we have developed a series of innovative fusion antimicrobial molecules that can be integrated into a nanobody backbone, creating a novel antimicrobial therapy.Our findings have broad applications, particularly in the face of the rise of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Ultimately, we aim to develop a therapeutic platform for the direct treatment of bacterial infections.