About the project
This research will focus on oral biofilms and their effects on oral health. The project is highly multidisciplinary and will pioneer a novel approach to control the formation and maturation of biofilm within the oral microbiome, combining the latest chemical biology technique with microbiological methods.
Oral biofilms developing aggressively on dental surfaces are linked to numerous human oral illnesses and infections. Biofilms comprise a microbe-derived extracellular-matrix and with biofilm maturation, constituent matrix exopolysaccharides (EPS) formed on tooth surfaces can provide binding sites and an optimal environment for growth of microbes including harmful bacteria, leading to pathogenesis. It is thus crucial to understand the relationship between biofilm maturation and pathogenic process in the oral cavity.
Formation and maturation of oral biofilms are affected by key enzymes. We will attempt to control this enzyme activity through using chemical probes and biological means. This multidisciplinary project combines a variety of expertise including carbohydrate chemistry, enzymology, molecular biology, and microbiology to provide an insight into the oral biofilm’s impact on the oral health in general.
This interdisciplinary project will be performed in the School of Chemistry, the School of Biological Sciences and the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC), and benefits from the expertise of Haleon.
As the project develops, there is an opportunity to conduct a 3-month placement with Haleon tailored to the interests of the student.
Apart from the University of Southampton's supervisors, this project also has the following external supervisors:
- Dr Rob Howlin, Haleon
- Dr David Bradshaw, Haleon
- Dr Ricarda Hawkins, Haleon
