Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying recognition of foreign DNA by the bacterial Cro domain
Novo Nordisk Foundation
University of Aarhus
Resistant bacterial infections are a major public health concern and estimated to will result in up to 10m deaths worldwide by 2050. With classical antibiotics failing, alternatives are rapidly needed, and one particular approach, the combination of antibiotics and bacterial viruses has been shown to harbour significant potential. But to be able to use bacterial viruses, we need to develop a deeper understanding of how bacteria defend themselves. In this proposal, we focus on a large class of toxins produced by, and directed against, the bacterium itself. These toxins come in pairs with their associated antitoxins, which keep them in check when not needed. Upon viral infection of the bacterium the toxin is activated and prevents further spread of the virus. Our aim is to understand the mechanism of how phages are recognised and how the toxin is subsequently activated. We believe that this knowledge can be used in the future to develop new ways of combatting pathogenic bacteria.
Research / Projects / Award