The University of Queensland

Untangling the matrix of bacterial biofilms (2023–2026)

Abstract:

This research aims to use forefront molecular microbiology and biophysical approaches to advance fundamental knowledge on bacterial biofilms. These bacterial clusters are held together by an extracellular matrix comprised of bacterial-derived fibrous protein and the polysaccharide cellulose, which imparts structural integrity and resistance to antimicrobials. The major goals of this project are to dissect how bacteria regulate production of the biofilm matrix, and examine how changes in the composition of the matrix alters its properties, including the penetration of antimicrobial peptides and antibiotics. The outcomes will help address the economic burden of difficult to treat industrial, environmental and biomedical biofilms.

Grant type:

ARC Discovery Projects

Researchers:

• 

  Professor Mark Schembri

  Professorial Research Fellow & Grou
  

  Institute for Molecular Bioscience

  Professor
  

  School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences

  Faculty of Science

Funded by:

Australian Research Council