We are interested in the molecular basis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence.

​

This environmental bacterium is a potent opportunistic pathogen, in hospitals in immuno-compromized, intubated-ventilated or severely burned patients, and also for sufferers of cystic fibrosis. It is responsible for various infections, the most common being pulmonary infections (acute and chronic), ocular, and superinfections of wounds.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence is multifactorial, and we are more particularly focused on secreted toxins and degradative enzymes, also known as effectors. These facilitate colonization and survival in the eukaryotic host or competition with other bacteria.

​

Several effectors using the Tat export pathway or the type VI secretion system are under study. We investigate their characterization by multidisciplinary approaches of molecular microbiology, genetics, biochemistry and cell biology and through collaborations for microscopy and structural biology. We would like to address the mechanism of action of these effectors, their partners in the bacteria and their targets in the host.

​

​

​