2014 participants

Carys Davies

  • Bsc (Hons) Biochemistry
  • Structural studies of proteins associated with C. difficile pathogenicity

Clostridium difficile is the most prevalent hospital acquired infection in the UK, yet many of the virulence factors involved in infection are still poorly studied. One key aspect is how the bacteria colonises the gut and forms biofilms. The project will provide the ground work for structural characterisation of proteins associated with the bacterium's ability to establish colonies and biofilms. The project will give a unique insight into the molecular organisation and function of such proteins, help clarify their role in C. difficile infection and potentially reveal new therapeutical targets to tackle and control these infections.

 

Funding Source: Newcastle University