Bacteria have developed a range of mechanisms to defend against viral predation by bacteriophages (phages). In ongoing studies, we investigate the role of small molecules produced by actinobacteria in the defense against phage infection. Recently, we showed that aminoglycosides, a well-known class of antibiotics produced by Streptomyces, are potent inhibitors of phage infection in diverse bacterial species by blocking an early step of phage life cycle. Studying phage infection in Streptomyces, featuring a multicellular life style, we further observed that phage infection triggers the formation of transiently phage-resistant mycelium at the infection interface and could show that this cellular development is crucial for the containment of viral infections. These results highlight the diverse multicellular strategies employed by bacteria in the defense against their most abundant predator.
Short bio
Dr. Julia Frunzke has established herself as a leading figure in academia, currently holding the distinguished position of Professor (W2) at Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf since 2017. Her academic journey is marked by a series of notable achievements, beginning with her attainment of a PhD with highest honors in 2007. Noteworthy among her accomplishments is the prestigious ERC Starting Grant she secured in 2017, which has significantly propelled her research endeavors forward, (particularly in her work on the ‘ProPhage’ project). Her laboratory, « Bacterial Networks and Interaction, » situated in the Forschungszentrum Jülich, is dedicated to cutting-edge research in the field, including phage-bacteria interactions. Dr. Frunzke’s dedication to advancing the field is further evidenced by her leadership roles in various scientific symposia and workshops, including the VAAM Symposium and the Symposium on Mechanisms of Gene Regulation. Additionally, she plays an integral part in numerous scientific organizations, serving as the Speaker of the DFG SPP 2330 and as a board member of the « Nationales Forum Phagen » (NFP) in Germany.
Laboratory of the speaker
Bacterial Networks and Interactions
Invited by
Eugen Pfeifer (Nutriphage)
