Bacterial cell wall homeostasis
The cell wall is the major structural component of the bacterial cell. In Gram-positive bacteria, wall teichoic acid — a polyol phosphate glycopolymer — is a key constituent of cell wall, functionally linked to cell wall synthesis, structure and properties. We are interested in understanding how bacteria regulate this polymer, particularly during tightly controlled processes of cell wall biosynthesis, and shedding light the biological significance of this regulation.
Cell wall synthesis
β-lactam antibiotics, which inhibit cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis enzymes (penicillin-binding-proteins), remain the first-line therapy for treating Gram-negative bacterial infections. Resistance is due mostly to bacterial production of β-lactamase enzymes that inactivate these drugs, but target-based resistance is emerging. We are studying the biochemistry underlying this resistance mechanism, and examining these and other potential penicillin-binding-protein targets in a cellular context.
Targeting bacterial secondary cell wall polymers
Secondary cell wall polymers in Gram-positive bacteria, such as teichoic acids, play critical roles in activities that influence bacterial virulence and antimicrobial susceptibility, e.g. adhesion, biofilm formation. We are exploring alternative approaches to exploit these polymers and alter cell-surface properties to suppress virulence traits or augment antimicrobial action.