Research Interests

Hypermutable DNA sequences enable bacterial pathogens and commensals to colonise and persist in host organisms. A common mechanism involves mutations in tandem DNA repeat tracts (microsatellites). Professor Bayliss’ group focuses on the hypermutable DNA sequences of three bacterial pathogens:

• Neisseria meningitidis (meningitis and septicaemia).
• Haemophilus influenzae (meningitis, COPD and otitis media).
• Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne gastroenteritis).

One key research area is understanding the mutability of these repetitive DNA tracts. Mutations in these repeats switch gene expression ‘on’ and ‘off’ in a process called phase variation. The group uses mutants and reporter constructs to identify cis- and trans-acting factors that control mutability of these tracts.

The group’s other key research area is using bioinformatics molecular biology, epidemiology and modelling to understand how repetitive DNA contributes to host colonisation and disease processes. Their wide range of findings include:

• Identifying phase-variable genes (the phasome) in genomes of pathogens.
• Observing genetic changes during asymptomatic carriage of meningococci in university students.
• Identifying potential determinants of disease.

Professor Bayliss also has an interest in vaccines for preventing meningitis and uptake of these vaccines by university students.

Scientific Inspiration