RTG 1409: Molecular interactions of pathogens with biotic and abiotic surfaces

Basic data for this project

Description

Microbes (bacteria, fungi, and viruses) are in a constant interaction with biotic (cellular) and abiotic surfaces. These dynamic interactions are directly related to microbial virulence and play a central role in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. Overcoming or modulating the cellular barriers and the associated defenses of the host represents an essential survival strategy of pathogenic microorganisms. In the past, pathogenesis research in the areas of bacteriology, mycology and virology has been conducted largely without cross-fertilisation inside traditional boundaries. However, the more common infection and immunological defense mechanisms are described, the more these artificial borders collapse. In the Research Training Group the molecular interactions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses with cellular barriers and abiotic surfaces are studied using selected examples. The research groups contribute their various expertise in cell biology, microbiology, molecular biology and infectiology to the Research Training Group. An important goal is to enhance and focus the already existing collaborations between the various research laboratories engaged with the overall topic. In addition, novel developments in modern methods and technologies (imaging by atomic force microscopy (AFM), siRNA technologies, total internal reflection microscopy (TIRF), single molecule manipulation with laser tweezers etc.) will be incorporated within the focus of the Research Training Group. The resulting synergistic effects will specifically provide further training and education for the graduates. The Research Training Group focusses on the following central questions: (1) Gene regulation and mechanisms in the primary interaction with biotic and abiotic barriers, (2) molecular interactions and signalling with target cells and (3) extra- and intracellular transport processes of microbial virulence factors.