Characterisation of the immunomodulatory and oncogenic properties of bacterial extracellular vesicles

The release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) is a property that has been conserved by both multi- and unicellular organisms during evolution. One of the major functions of these EVs is to facilitate intercellular communication and transport of molecules. The release of EVs by prokaryotes was first described over 50 years ago, yet the biological significance of these structures is only beginning to be appreciated. We have shown that bacterial EVs are potent modulators of host immune responses. The overall aim of the project is to investigate the immunomodulatory and oncogenic properties of bacterial-derived EVs. For this, we will use cell culture and mouse models to elucidate EV interactions with host cells and to characterise the responses induced by these EVs. This project will involve a variety of techniques, including cell culture, mouse models, proteomics, molecular biology, fluorescence imaging, flow cytometry, cytokine ELISA and qPCR.