Physical Chemistry Seminar: Professor Lynette Cegelski, Stanford University

Professor Lynette Cegelski, Stanford University

"Bacterial Cell-Wall and Biofilm Discoveries with Small Molecules and a Big Magnet"

About the Seminar:

The bacterial cell wall is essential to cell survival and is a major target of antibiotics. Beyond the cell surface, bacteria assemble a protective extracellular matrix during biofilm formation. Our research program is inspired by the challenge and importance of elucidating chemical structure and function in these complex biological systems. We have introduced uniquely enabling approaches using whole-cell and macromolecular solid-state NMR, interfacial rheology, and new protocols for biochemical analysis in order to reveal how the physical properties and biological functions of cell walls and biofilms depend on their chemical composition and architecture. We are defining the modes of action of antimicrobials and anti-virulence compounds, including compounds identified through our own high-throughput screening efforts. I will report on major discoveries including the first determination of the composition of the intact biofilm extracellular matrix, the biosynthetic production of a modified cellulose in this matrix, and small-molecule activities that tip Nature off balance to report on assembly principles in cell walls and biofilms.