Bacterial gene transfer agents: mechanisms and applications

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This research program is focused on the movement of genetic material between cells. The movement of DNA among bacteria is an extremely important process, and one of the ways these organisms change and adapt to new environmental conditions. Examples of bacterial gene exchange relevant for human society include the acquisition of antibiotic resistance or novel virulence properties by human pathogens. We study virus-like entities called gene transfer agents (GTAs) that function solely to move DNA between cells. These GTAs resemble viruses, but they are produced and controlled by cellular organisms and transfer pieces of the producing organisms' genomic material to other cells. We focus on a specific model system, the GTA of the bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus. This model is amenable to many essential molecular genetic techniques, facilitating this research and making it a suitable microbiological study system. This GTA is also representative of GTAs produced by other species and the information gained can therefore be applied more widely. We are studying the details of how cells regulate GTA production, how DNA is selected for transfer by GTAs, and we want to modify GTAs so they can be used more broadly as tools. This research uses modern techniques in the areas of microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. This research is original and innovative and will have impact by contributing to advances in our understanding of microbial genetics, diversity, and evolution. It will also benefit Canada through the training of students and scientists who can then use their training for careers in industry, academia, and the health sciences.