Synthetic biology approaches towards a deeper understanding of polar growth in Streptomyces

Lubbers, M. (2026)

Doctoral Thesis

Streptomyces is used extensively in industry for the production of bioactive metabolites and enzymes. These multicellular bacteria grow as filamentous, branching cells, via a process called polar growth. This process is driven by the DivIVA protein, making it crucial to gain a deeper understanding of its structure and function. Using a unique engineering platform, we have enhanced our understanding of the function of DivIVA and the role of its protein domains.

• Hyphal growth
• Streptomycetaceae
• L-forms
• Cell wall deficiency
• Morphogenesis

• All authors: Lubbers, M.
• Supervisor: Claessen, D.; Wezel, G.P. van
• Committee: Meijer, A.H.; Ram, A.F.J.; Irmisch, S.; Hamoen, L.W.; Kepplinger, B.
• Qualification: Doctor (dr.)
• Awarding Institution: Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL), Faculty of Science, Leiden University
• Date: 2026-09-08
• ISBN (print): 9789465378008
• Sponsorship: NWO
• Grant number: VI.C.192.002