"Characterization of the systemic innate immune response upon infection with Bacillus cereus spores"

Abstract :

"The Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spore-forming bacteria are used as bioinsecticides specifically targeting lepidopteran crop pests. Spores are a highly resistant form of the bacteria and their wide use in agriculture favors encounters with non-target organisms. Bt belongs to the Bacillus cereus (Bc) group, many strains of which are opportunistic pathogens. This group is implicated in food poisoning (1st cause in France and Europe) and in systemic nosocomial infections (fatal in 30% of cases in newborns).  In the hospital environment, infections occur likely via spores that are present on medical equipment. Due to their resistance properties, spores are very difficult to eliminate and their presence in medical facilities is problematic. It is therefore important to better understand the defense mechanisms implemented by the host following infection with these bacteria to set up therapeutic measures to avoid the fatal issue of these infections. 

The well conserved innate immune response being the first barrier against infections, I'm studying the response mounted after systemic infection with different strains of the Bc group: agricultural strains, reference strains, probiotics and hospital strains which have caused septicemia in newborns. I am particularly investigating the immune response triggered by the spore form of the bacteria. I draw a parallel between this response and the activation of immune pathways caused by vegetative bacteria, which is well documented. I will present the results I obtained during my first two years of PhD and outline my preliminary conclusions. "