PhD grants "Zinc homeostasis in Streptococcus agalactiae" (SSBCV)

• Keywords

bacteria, metal, regulation, virulence

• Profile and skills required

Master degree in Life sciences/ microbiology with skills in the domain of academical research.

Experience in bacteriology and molecular biology will be appreciated. The candidate must have a strong motivation, a certain autonomy combined with ability to work in a team and communication skills.

• Project description

Streptococcus agalactiae is both an animal and human pathogen, that is able to colonize different hosts and niches. Zinc is a trace element that is essential for most living cells and S. agalactiae must acquire this metal in its environment. However, during infection, the host limit access to metal ions in order to restrict the growth of pathogens. In our laboratory, we are studying the mechanisms used by S. agalactiae to cope with zinc deprivation.

A transcriptomic analysis allowed us to identify two uncharacterized ABC-transporters, highly regulated by the zinc concentration of the medium and thus potentially linked to zinc homeostasis. The project of the thesis is focused on the study of these two transporter: determination of their substrate specificity, physiological roles and regulation.

• References

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(12) Hiron et al. (2007). J Bacteriol. 189(14):5119-29

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