Scientists at IMBA are passionate about discovery and advancing our understanding of biology. They are recognized leaders in their fields, regularly publishing in the top research journals. Contributions from IMBA research groups are of interest to everyone – including scientists, clinicians, and the public. The Research Highlights below summarize some of the most significant discoveries made by IMBA scientists.

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03.03.2011

The weaponry of salmonellae

Bacteria like salmonellae infect their host cells by needle-shaped extensions which they create in large numbers during an attack.

Illustration: Structure of the needle-complex of Salmonella, embedded in a cellular context (artist’s interpretation based on original data). Source: IMP-IMBA

A group of Vienna-based scientists headed by Thomas Marlovits employed recently developed methods of cryo-electron microscopy and has been able to clarify the structure of this infection apparatus on the near-atomic scale. The exact knowledge of the needles’ building plan may help to develop substances that interfere with its function and thus prevent infection.

These findings were published in Science: Three-dimensional model of Salmonella's needle complex at subnanometer resolution. Schraidt O, Marlovits TC. Science. 2011 Mar 4;331(6021):1192-5. 

>>link to paper on Science