Structural Biology Applied in the Study of Pathogenic Bacteria

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advances in structural biology techniques have revolutionized research in the field. Cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) has enabled the determination of high-resolution structures of proteins and large protein complexes, and cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TM) allows for the determination of the detailed structure of large complexes in the cell. Such techniques extend and are complemented by classical methods, such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods. Additionally, high-accuracy AI-based protein 3D structure prediction methods, such as Alphafold, add further momentum to the field by providing excellent theoretical models that help structure resolution and allow for the better interpretation and planning of biochemical experiments.

These breakthroughs have significantly advanced our understanding of bacterial functioning, revealing intricate mechanisms of cell–cell communication and novel details of interactions between host cells and other microorganisms. Integrating 3D structure prediction tools with bioinformatics provides valuable insights into the evolution and functional significance of biological systems.

In keeping with the fast pace of the latest advances in structural and computational biology and its applications to bacterial cell biology, Pathogens is organizing this Special Issue, titled "Structural Biology Applied in the Study of Pathogenic Bacteria". We invite the submission of original research and review papers on the innovative aspects of pathogenicity mechanisms, quorum-sensing, bacterial competition, the structure and function of secretory systems, mechanisms of effectors and immunity proteins, as well as other topics that may shed new light on processes critical for pathogen–host interactions and bacterial competition, with a focus on medically or agriculturally relevant bacteria. 

In summary, this Special Issue will explore the profound implications of the latest advancements in structural biology to the understanding of bacterial interactions and pathogenesis, and we invite all esteemed researchers to contribute to help unlock these mechanisms and pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies in the fight against infectious diseases.

Dr. Cristiane Rodrigues Guzzo
Dr. Robson Francisco de Souza
Guest Editors

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