An RNA perspective on virulence regulation in C. difficile

Sprecher: Franziska Faber (Universität Würzburg)

Gastgeberin: Ana Brochado (CMFI)

Datum & Uhrzeit: 17.07.2025 | 12:30 – 14:00 Uhr

Ort:  Hörsaal 3M07, GUZ

Abstract: 

Small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) have emerged as ubiquitous post-transcriptional regulators in bacteria. However, there are only a few bacterial organisms where sRNAs and their associated RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have been comprehensively and mechanistically characterized. We recently identified and functionally described several new RNA regulators and their associated RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that modulate key virulence features in C. difficile, including sporulation and toxin production. Our current research efforts focus on understanding how these small RNAs are integrated into transcriptional regulons to fine-tune the production of critical virulence features, such as spore production, in response to environmental changes. As a result, we have identified several stress-responsive sRNAs that facilitate optimal oxidative stress responses and modulate sporulation during episodes of oxidative stress. In the future, we aim to leverage our knowledge of these molecular interactions to design antisense oligomers that mimic sRNA activities for the targeted and controlled inhibition of central virulence pathways such as spore formation.

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