Bacterial flagella are complex nanomachines that drive motility, allowing bacteria to navigate their environment. Flagella-mediated movement is essential for key processes such as colonization and host cell adhesion. Our research focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms that control flagellar assembly, function, and regulation. We investigate critical components, including the flagellar Type III Secretion System (T3SS), the filament cap and the mechanisms of stator recruitment. Additionally, we study the unfolding energy applied by the T3SS during early and late secretion modes, as well as the kinetics of flagellar hook assembly to build on previous filament assembly studies.

With the increased importance of biobased production and circular economies, the production of recombinant proteins has become a multi‑billion Euro industry. Applications vary greatly and can range from industrial enzymes to cosmetics and medicine. However, current methods which make use of microbial platforms are often hindered by an expensive and lengthy production process.