To combat Gram-negative pathogens we develop innovative strategies for the discovery and development of new antibiotics that target the outer membrane Bam protein complex.
Specific to Gram-negative bacteria, the Bam complex plays an essential role in the biogenesis of the outer membrane and the secretion of virulence factors. To combat Mycobacterium tuberculosis and related mycobacteria, we elucidate the function of protein complexes in (energy) metabolism and characterize novel antibiotics that interfere with the function this central pathway. Targeting energy metabolism has emerged as a highly successful strategy to tackle this prominent pathogen. In addition, we use our zebrafish embryo infection model to screen directly for compounds that work in vivo.