Exploitation of Host Cells by Burkholderia Pseudomallei

Burkholderia pseudomallei, a facultative intracellular bacterium that causes meliodoisis, has evolved novel strategies to subvert eukaryotic cell functions. The bacteria promote their uptake by non-phagocytic cells, escape from endocytic vesicles, and are propelled within cells and from cell-to-cell by polar nucleation of actin. Uniquely, B.pseudomallei also induces cell fusion. <P>
We will assess the role of B.pseudomallei type III and type V secreted proteins in these processes and identify bacterial and cellular factors involved in actin-based motility. By studying B.pseudomallei-host cell interactions we will add to understanding of the intracellular trafficking and survival of bacterial pathogens and the cellular processes they exploit.