Structural Microbiology Laboratory.

The research activities of the Group focus on elucidating the structural-functional relationship of virulence factors in pathogenic bacteria. Currently, we investigate the mechanism of action of bacterial effectors delivered by the Type 6 Secretion System (T6SS). Nearly a quarter of sequenced Gram-negative bacteria code for the T6SS, which bacteria employ to inject virulence factors into target cells. The T6SS assembles inside the bacteria. Upon cell-contact, this molecular machine is propelled towards the target cell, puncturing their membranes and injecting effector proteins using a contractile spike-like device. Effectors delivered by the T6SS target competing bacteria or eukaryotic host cells, providing a fitness advantage that allows them to thrive and facilitates host colonization.