Not just a virulence factor: capsule biology across the Neisseria genus (360G-Wellcome-109025_Z_15_A)

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This project seeks to address the relatively unexplored topic of the genetics, function and evolutionary history of the Neisseria polysaccharide capsule, beyond its established role as a virulence factor in Neisseria meningitidis (Nme). This will be achieved by examining capsular types not associated with disease, both from Nme, and capsules recently discovered in the commensal Neisseria species. The first goal is to complete genetic and phenotypic characterisation of the novel commensal capsular types. Once this is established, a key goal is to seek comparisons between these novel capsules and those of Nme within the coding sequences and regulatory regions, and at the structural level. I also plan to address the question of what the role of capsule is in colonisation and transmission, given that it most likely was not selected for its virulence properties. Finally, I seek to build a clearer history of the acquisition and evolution of capsule in Neisseria. This will bring forward new insights into the roles of capsule in normal, healthy colonisation of the nasopharynx, both by Nme and the strictly commensal Neisseria species. This work may also have implications for our interpretation of Nme dynamics and the rare transition to a state of disease.

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Grant Details

Amount Awarded 0
Applicant Surname Clemence
Approval Committee Internal Decision Panel
Award Date 2017-01-31T00:00:00+00:00
Financial Year 2016/17
Grant Programme: Title PhD Studentship (Basic)
Internal ID 109025/Z/15/A
Lead Applicant Ms Marianne Clemence
Partnership Value 0
Planned Dates: End Date 2019-09-30T00:00:00+00:00
Planned Dates: Start Date 2016-10-01T00:00:00+00:00
Recipient Org: Country United Kingdom
Region South East