Department of Microbiology & Immunology Seminar: “Systematic Identification of Molecular Mediators Underlying Polymicrobial Sensing and Responses in Pseudomonas aeruginosa”

Speaker:
Tiffany Zarrella, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
Georgetown University

Location: Med-Dent NE301 or via Zoom

Abstract:
Bacteria typically exist in dynamic, multispecies communities where polymicrobial interactions influence fitness. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions is critical for understanding and modulating bacterial behavior in natural environments. We developed a systematic strategy based on transcriptomics combined with genetic and biochemical screens of promoter-reporters to identify the molecules from one bacterial species that are sensed by another. We utilized this method to study interactions between the pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus that are frequently found in co-infections. Using this approach, we identified multiple staphylococcal exoproducts that are sensed by P. aeruginosa that encompass both competitive and cooperative interactions. Ongoing work will define the mechanisms by which these interspecies molecules affect P. aeruginosa physiology and pathogenic behaviors.

Sponsored by the Georgetown University Department of Microbiology & Immunology