Wesley Wen

Citation

Thesis Title
Identification and functional characterisation of a novel surface protein complex of Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Proteins are the most diverse structures on bacterial surfaces and are consequently candidates for species- and strain-specific interactions of bacteria with the host, environment and other microorganisms. In probiotic bacteria, some surface and secreted proteins mediate interactions with the host and may consequently contribute to the health-promoting effects. Mr Wen''sresearch identified a novel surface protein complex from a probiotic bacterium known asLactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), and functionally characterised these proteins in bacteria-bacteria and bacteria-host interactions. He found that this protein complex was involved in regulation of bacterial aggregation and biofilm growth, and modulation of the human intestinal immunity. His research revealed a new molecular mechanism that probiotic bacteria can use to promote human health.

Supervisors
Professor Jasna Rakonjac
Dr Michael Collett
Dr Dragana Gagic