Receptor Mimic Technology

Investigators: Dr. Adrienne Paton, Dr. Renato Morona, Prof. James Paton

Receptor Mimic Technology involves development of a novel anti-infective strategy based on recombinant probiotics expressing mimics of host receptors for toxins, bacterial adhesins or viruses on their surface. These “designer probiotics” bind toxins or the pathogens themselves with high avidity, and have great potential for treatment of a wide range of gastrointestinal infections in humans and domestic animals. We have already developed probiotics capable of preventing STEC disease, travellers’ diarrhoea and cholera, and we are now directing our attention at other important enteric pathogens including rotavirus and Clostridium difficile.