The Gram-positive Enterococci are commensal inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as opportunistic pathogens associated with endocarditis, urinary tract infections, and wound infection. Many Enterococcal infections are difficult to treat due to their multi-drug resistance, association with bacterial biofilms, and polymicrobial nature. Moreover, we’ve recently shown that Enterococcus faecalis undergoes a virulence-enhancing intracellular life cycle which may further complicate infection treatment. In this talk I will share two areas of new research from our team. 1. Characterization and therapeutic targeting of intracellular E. faecalis during wound infection. 2. Mechanistic discoveries of synergy and antagonism between E. faecalis and frequently co-isolated bacterial species, and the impact of these interactions on biofilm-associated infection outcomes.

Kimberly Kline is invited by Molly Ingersoll.