Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP160101664 [ 2016 - 2020 ]

Research Grant

Researchers Prof Mark Willcox; Prof Naresh Kumar; Dr Charles Cranfield

Brief description This project plans to investigate a novel cationic peptide that prevents microbial colonisation of surfaces. The ability of bacteria to colonise surfaces affects almost all aspects of human life – from water to food and medical devices. As microbes become increasingly resistant to traditional biocides, the design of effective antimicrobial surfaces to prevent microbial colonisation and biofilm formation is critically important. The novel cationic peptide may provide a solution, but the mechanism of action of surface-bound peptides on bacteria is poorly understood. This project aims to combine biophysics, biochemistry, microbiology and molecular biology to study interactions with the surface of two model bacteria. This may facilitate optimal design of new coatings.

Funding Amount $392,500

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects