Target Identification (WP1, WP2, WP3)
Applies a combination of advanced
genomic approaches devised to screen the entire genome of
P. aeruginosa for the identification of potential targets. Target identification is carried out using a combination of
P. aeruginosa clinical epidemic and dominant strains including those resistant to antibiotics. The main molecular genetic approaches used in the identification of targets are:
- Improved insertional mutagenesis for the identification of genes involved in virulence and hence establishment and maintenance of P. aeruginosa infection.
- Signature Tagged Mutagenesis (STM) for the identification of genes which are expressed during infection and hence required for the adaptation of the pathogen to the host.
- Screening of conditional antisense RNA libraries for the identification of genes essential for growth.
The use of these three strategies is paramount and it provides a unique picture on the complexity of host/pathogen interaction of
P. aeruginosa during infection and leads to the identification of the physiological role of the target gene(s).
