Author Spotlight: Understanding Rhamnolipid Regulation in <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>

The aim of our research is to understand the regulatory mechanisms involved the expression of the different virulence factors produced by the opportunistic pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, that include the biosurfactants rhamnolipids. Rhamnolipids are non-toxic and environmental-friendly, and have several biotechnological applications, so they are now in the market. We have reported the rhamnolipids biosynthetic root and the regulation of their expression in different isolates that are atypical, and refractory to alternative therapeutic approaches based on antivirulence strategies.

In addition, we have reported the construction of strains that produce high levels of rhamnolipids and are non-virulent. The technique describe, enable the detection and quantification of rhamnolipids by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This protocol is accurate and reproducible and do not need expensive equipment.