Pathogenomics of Staphylococcus aureus: identification of novel virulence traits. (360G-Wellcome-099957_Z_12_Z)

£222,695

Despite a wealth of recent work, the genetic attributes that determine the pathogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus remain poorly understood. Breakthroughs in genomic sequencing and in-vivo modelling have allowed development of a novel approach to identify genetic determinants of disease. Using a high-throughput model of systemic S. aureus infection in zebrafish embryos, I have screened closely related strains for differences in pathogenesis in the model. We have proved the principle of this a pproach as clear differences in pathogenesis can be determined between related strains and genomic comparison has revealed candidate genomic fingerprints associated with pathogenesis. These are currently being investigated to identify the constituents of the pathogenome. The proposed research allows us to scale up this project and screen prospectively collected hospital acquired methicillin-resistant S .aureus strains from across the country, to examine strain phenotype in the zebrafish model. A pplying whole genome sequence analysis, I will build a database of putative virulence determinants and subsequently test their role in pathogenesis. This will inform the use of a mammalian model of infection. The output from this model will have wide applications such as the proposal of new vaccine targets and the realisation of anti-staphylococcal therapies tailored to individual strains and therefore patients.

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Grant Details

Amount Awarded 222695
Applicant Surname Boldock
Approval Committee Clinical Interview Committee
Award Date 2012-11-20T00:00:00+00:00
Financial Year 2012/13
Grant Programme: Title Research Training Fellowship
Internal ID 099957/Z/12/Z
Lead Applicant Dr Emma Boldock
Partnership Value 222695
Planned Dates: End Date 2016-04-30T00:00:00+00:00
Planned Dates: Start Date 2013-05-01T00:00:00+00:00
Recipient Org: Country United Kingdom
Region Yorkshire and the Humber
Sponsor(s) Prof David Dockrell