Developing a physiologically relevant tissue model to mimic the in vivo nasal epithelium during Staphylococcus aureus colonisation and infection
Supervisors:
Dr Justine Rudkin, University of Glasgow
Dr Caroline Weight, Lancaster University
Prof Robert Gray, University of Glasgow
Summary:
Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen responsible for a wide spectrum of diseases. Despite its virulence, it asymptomatically colonises the nasal cavity of up to 60% of individuals. Colonisation is a key risk factor for subsequent infection, often by the host’s own microbiome strains. However, the factors determining colonisation status and the mechanisms by which S. aureus establishes persistent residence in the nasal niche remain poorly understood. Existing experimental models rely on oversimplified epithelial monolayers that lack key physiological features such as cilia, mucus, and microbial diversity, limiting their physiological relevance.
This project aims to fill these knowledge gaps by developing and characterising a more physiologically realistic nasal epithelial tissue model. This model will include critical features of the human nasal environment, including the nasal microbiome, and will be used to: (1) study S. aureus adhesion and persistence; and (2) assess the impact of commensal nasal microbiota on colonisation dynamics. Insights gained will advance our understanding of S. aureus colonisation and its transition to disease.
Training Outcomes: The student will gain multidisciplinary training in advanced tissue and bacterial culture, microscopy, and molecular techniques. They will also develop critical skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration.