M. Whiteley

Convergent evolution in toxin detection and resistance provides evidence for conserved bacterial-fungal interactions

This study identifies a convergent evolutionary mechanism in toxin detection and resistance between Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus fumigatus, revealing shared environmental cues and enzymatic defenses.

Volatile hydrogen cyanide released by Pseudomonas aeruginosa provides a competitive advantage over Staphylococcus aureus in biofilm and in vivo lung environments

This study shows that Pseudomonas aeruginosa releases volatile hydrogen cyanide (HCN) that inhibits Staphylococcus aureus growth in low oxygen environments, providing a competitive advantage in biofilms and in vivo lung infections.

The SARS-CoV-2 variants associated with infections in India, B.1.617, show enhanced spike cleavage by furin

This study shows SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 variants have enhanced spike cleavage by furin due to the P681R mutation, potentially increasing transmissibility and pathogenicity.

The Pseudomonas aeruginosa Wsp pathway undergoes positive evolutionary selection during chronic infection