Prof. Blokesch Group

The Blokesch lab at EPFL, led by Prof. Melanie Blokesch, focuses on the environmental lifestyle and evolvability of pathogenic bacteria, with a primary interest in Vibrio cholerae. Research delves into regulatory networks, molecular mechanisms, and horizontal gene transfer-mediated spread of antimicrobial resistances. The lab's work encompasses bacterial competition, surface colonization, biofilm formation, and host-pathogen interactions. Recent studies have highlighted the role of cell appendages in forming networks on chitinous surfaces, impacting bacterial competition outcomes. The lab's research sheds light on how V. cholerae adapts to its environment, emphasizing mechanisms of DNA uptake, kin-discriminated effacement, and the role of the type VI secretion system in enhancing horizontal gene transfer.