We are interested in the study of transport processes across archaeal membranes. Archaea are known to inhabit very hostile environments. Our model organisms are Sulfolobus solfataricus, prefers growth conditions of 80oC and pH3. The characterized sugar uptake systems of this archaeon showed interesting adaptations to the extreme environment in which it thrives. The extracellular components of the Sulfolobus solfataricus transporters contain bacterial type IV pilin like signal peptides. Recently, we identified and characterized the archaeal type IV pilin peptidase. Current research is focussing on the type IV pilin like-secretion system in Sulfolobus solfataricus.
For more information contact Prof. A.J.M. Driessen.
