dr hab. Janusz Madaj, prof. UG

The topics implemented in our group are closely related to biological aspects of carbohydrate chemistry. It could be divided into two streams. The first concerns vancomycin and its analogues and their interaction with the muramyl peptide of the cell wall of Staphylococcus aureus. This Gram-positive bacterium is considered one of the most virulent pathogens and is responsible for many hospital-acquired infections. The biggest problem is its strains resistant to most antibiotics, including vancomycin. This makes it necessary to conduct research on new antibiotics, which to some extent our research fits into.

We carry out these studies both on the synthetic and computational side. We are working on the synthesis of sugar-modified vancomycin analogues and their interaction with S. aureus cell wall peptidoglycan. We want to use gel electrophoresis and spectroscopic techniques. At the same time, we have harnessed modern computational methods to simulate these interactions, which creates a wide range of possibilities for obtaining different results and at the same time allows us to present a wide range of work choices for collaborating students, PhD students and researchers.

The second stream consists of studies on the structure of bacterial exopolysaccharides.
It has long been known that many strains of bacteria willingly exist in large colonies surrounded by biofilm, which performs, among other things, protective functions, making them much more resistant to external factors, including antibiotics. In addition to harm, biofilms also bring a number of benefits to humans. They are used in the food industry. Attempts are also being made to deny biofilm-forming bacteria to produce biodegradable materials. However, the key aspect in all cases is to know the structure of the biofilm, and in particular the exopolysahcarides which are its main component. These studies are of interest to many research groups, including ours. We implement this theme in cooperation with two American centers. With a group of Professor Poonam Gulati of Houston-Downtown University and with a group of Professor Beatrice Clack of Stephen F. Austin State University. Since it is typically analytical work, it can be done not only by chemistry students but also by related subjects who have passed the basic course of organic chemistry.

An important aspect of modern science is the cooperation between scientists and industry. Our group cooperates with one of the most dynamic private pharmaceutical companies in Poland, ADAMED.

In addition to a pleasant and professional atmosphere and interesting topics, we can provide students willing to cooperate with us good working conditions and the best opportunity to continue their studies in our Team until obtaining the degree of Doctor of Chemical Sciences.