ICE coupling protein inhibitors

Antibiotic resistance (AR) is one of the greatest threats to human health.

The global overuse of antibiotics has resulted in the proliferation and dissemination of antibiotic resistant bacteria harboring a multitude of antibiotic resistance genes that can be mobilized by different horizontal gene transfer processes such as conjugation.

Integrative Conjugative Elements (ICEs) are mobile genetic elements which are typically found integrated in the bacterial chromosome and encode the machinery for their conjugation. The so-called coupling proteins have a critical role in the conjugation process.

ICECOUP is focused on the molecular and functional characterization of a critical component for ICE transmission, the coupling protein, with the ultimate goal of finding ICE conjugation inhibitors to block or, at least, minimize the AR spread. To date, ICE coupling proteins have received little attention despite their importance in the transfer mechanism.

The supervision of Dr. Itziar Alkorta at the University of Basque Country(UPV/EHU) is a key element to guarantee the success of this project.

ICECOUP will generate extensive and innovative scientific outputs that in the long run will have a societal impact, enhancing the catalogue of weapons to combat antibiotic resistance.

The multidisciplinary approach of ICECOUP will allow me the reinforce my scientific knowledge and soft skills, while I acquire outreach and project management capacities.

Undoubtedly, should this project be funded, it will strengthen my prospects to forge a stable career as an independent researcher able to secure funding.