Genetics and dynamics of staphylococcal persister cells
Bacterial persister cells constitute a phenotypic heterogeneous subpopulation encompassing antibiotic tolerant dormant cells within a common isogenic culture. We aim to study Staphylococcus persisters with a focus on S. aureus. Different strains and mutants will be analyzed in regard to population dynamics and genetic factors associated with persister cells. Strains affected in toxin-antitoxin systems or further suspect persister genes will be challenged with different antimicrobial compounds to isolate persisters for downstream analyses. Time lapse microscopy can facilitate tracking persister formation on the single cell level and cultivation of cells in microfluidic devices allows a repeated change between selective or non-selective media to also explore parameters of persister-resuscitation. Aided by gene expression profiling data and quantitative information on persister-protein abundance, we aim to establish biomathematical models for bacterial persisters.
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PD Dr. Ralph Bertram Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen Interfakultäres Institut für Mikrobiologie und Infektionsmedizin Lehrbereich Mikrobielle Genetik Waldhäuser Str. 70/8 D-72076 Tübingen Tel.: +49-(0)7071-29-75934 Fax.: +49-(0)7071-29-5937 ralph.bertram@uni-tuebingen.de Homepage Link |
- Funded from SPP1617: Lukas Mechler (PhD student)
- Funded from other sources: Marcel Prax (PhD student), Raphaela Künzel (technician)