About this Research Topic
Surface proteins of Gram-positive bacteria are required for: bacterial growth, cell wall maintenance, cell division, protection of bacteria from environmental challenges, adhesion to environment components, colonization and biofilm formation, interaction with eukaryotic cells and induction of immune responses. Thus, surface proteins are essential for bacterial life and critically important in competition for survival in different complex environments in the world.
Regarding commensal or probiotic bacteria, the surface proteins are involved in bacteria-host interactions that support beneficial effects. In the era of metagenomics analysis of the human microbiota, identification of the effectors of the cross-talk between bacteria and their host is essential to understand the molecular basis of the symbiosis and develop strategies to restore homeostasis in disease situations.
Regarding pathogens, the surface proteins often contribute to pathogenesis and are thus considered as virulence factors. In the era of antibiotic resistance, it is extremely important to identify new potential targets for action of new drugs and antibacterial therapies and to select specific marker/markers for the identification of bacteria with rapid diagnostic tests in different samples such as food, water and blood. The surface proteins seem to be the ideal candidate here.
Regarding commensal or probiotic bacteria, the surface proteins are involved in bacteria-host interactions that support beneficial effects. In the era of metagenomics analysis of the human microbiota, identification of the effectors of the cross-talk between bacteria and their host is essential to understand the molecular basis of the symbiosis and develop strategies to restore homeostasis in disease situations.
Regarding pathogens, the surface proteins often contribute to pathogenesis and are thus considered as virulence factors. In the era of antibiotic resistance, it is extremely important to identify new potential targets for action of new drugs and antibacterial therapies and to select specific marker/markers for the identification of bacteria with rapid diagnostic tests in different samples such as food, water and blood. The surface proteins seem to be the ideal candidate here.
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