Plasmids Group

The Plasmids Group focuses on understanding the biology of conjugative plasmids and developing innovative strategies to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a top global health threat. Using genetically engineered plasmids, the group is developing therapies that eradicate antibiotic resistance genes from bacteria without disrupting beneficial microbiota. This approach preserves the host’s gut ecosystem, controls the spread of AMR genes and mitigates resistance adaptation. With support from NHMRC grants and the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), the team is advancing diagnostic tools and testing therapeutic plasmids to prevent AMR acquisition and eliminate AMR in clinical and environmental settings.

Key research focus areas include:

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Management: Developing strategies to combat antibiotic resistance through innovative therapies.
• Plasmid Biology: Understanding the biology of conjugative plasmid modular systems (plasmid conjugation, replication, stability and entry exclusions) using genetics and genomics approaches
• Plasmid Therapy: Using genetically engineered plasmids to eradicate antibiotic resistance genes without harming beneficial bacteria or promoting resistance adaptation.
• Diagnostic Tool Development: Creating new methods to track and manage antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations.
• Preservation of Microbiota: Ensuring therapeutic approaches do not disrupt the host’s gut microbiome, preserving overall health and microbial balance.
• Environmental and Clinical Impact Studies: Understanding the role of plasmids in bacterial ecosystems across human, animal, and environmental health.