Prokaryotic Surface Layers

In situ structure and dynamics of prokaryotic surface layers

Many prokaryotic cells including bacteria and archaea are encapsulated by a highly-organized surface layer (or S-layer) that consists of repeating subunits of sheet-forming S-layer proteins (see Bharat et al, 2020). S-layers have fascinated microbiologists, microscopists and structural biologists for many decades because of their order, beauty, utility and abundance. S-layers act as permeability barriers protecting prokaryotic cells from harmful molecules including extracellular phages. S-layers provide mechanical support to membranes, allowing cells to maintain their shape. S-layers also play roles in pathogenicity in bacterial species such as Campylobacter fetus, Clostridium difficile and Bacillus anthracis. We use electron cryotomography in conjunction with X-ray crystallography and single-particle electron cryomicroscopy to understand how S-layers are assembled and arranged on prokaryotic cells (please see Bharat et al, 2017 and von Kügelgen et al, 2020).

Collaborations

We collaborate with several scientists within the University of Oxford and with many laboratories outside Oxford. Please do get in touch if you are interested in working with us.