Biological Sciences Colloquium: Dr. Kyle Leistikow

Dr. Kyle Leistikow, research manager at Microbial Discovery Group (MDG), will present a talk about his work entitled, “From Soil to Solution: Discovering Bacillus subtilis Peptides That Battle Biofilm-Forming Superbugs.”

The abstract is as follows:

“Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus auerus poses a critical challenge to both human and animal health, largely due to its ability to form biofilms that protect it from antibiotics and promote resistance. To help combat this issue, Bacillus subtilis, a probiotic bacterium, has emerged as a natural source of biofilm-disrupting compounds. After screening over 1,000 Bacilius isolates, we identified a unique strain, B. subtilis 6D1, that produces peptides capable of disassembling mature S. aureus biofilms and enhancing antibiotic sensitivity. This talk will explore the journey from soil to solution, unearthing the powerful antibiofilm properties of Bacillus peptides and their potential to combat superbug infections.”

The presentation will begin at 4:00 PM in Lapham Hall N101, preceded by an informal reception from 3:45 – 4:00 PM.