Functional characterization of pilus and secretion system biogenesis in Vibrio parahaemolyticus

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Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) is a halophilic bacterium commonly found in marine estuarine environments. Vp attaches to a variety of shellfish, especially oysters and crabs, and as a result, Vp contaminated shellfish poses a significant threat to human health when poorly cooked or raw seafood is consumed. For this reason, advanced knowledge of how Vp adheres to shellfish and how Vp secretes toxins during infection is required. Vp binds and adheres to shellfish using pili, which are best described as thin hair-like extensions found on the surface of the bacteria. Pili form a mesh work, often allowing the bacteria to clump and then bind to chitin surfaces in the marine environment such as oyster and lobster shells. Once bound in clumps, Vp bacteria form biofilms which are dense communities of bacterial cells that form a slimy covering on surfaces. Our research program describes experimental objectives to investigate and explore how Vp generates biofilms on chitin surfaces. We plan to use modern and innovative approaches to address key questions that will impact on the marine environment. Our research will also contribute to seafood safety initiatives and will benefit the aquaculture industry. Ideally a better understanding of bacterial biofilms will aid the aquaculture industry in operational measures to limit Vibrio contaminated seafood products.