Identification and characterization of new genes required for Type VI Secretion System mediated anti-bacterial activity

Bacteria typically exist in mixed communities with other microorganisms and therefore, need to compete with rival microorganisms for resources and space.

The Type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a protein nanomachine that many bacteria use to fire toxic ‘effector’ proteins directly into neighbouring cells.

Usually, the T6SS is used against rival bacteria, making it an important weapon by which bacteria compete with and kill each other.

I aim to identify new genes which are involved in T6SS-mediated anti-bacterial activity and to determine how some of them work.

The experiments will be carried out using a representative bacterial pathogen called Serratia marcescens and results should also tell us more about many other pathogens.

In addition to studying the ‘attacker’ cells bearing the T6SS, we will also be investigating what happens in the ‘target’ cells on the receiving end of the toxic effectors. We will try to understand if target cells can become resistant to particular effectors, and if so, how this happens.

Overall, this project will lead to a better understanding of how bacteria survive in communities, infect host organisms, and kill each other and thus, may help develop new anti-bacterial drugs and strategies in the future.