Horst Posthaus

Professor Horst Posthaus serves as Head of Research Group at the Department of Infectious Disease and Pathobiology within the Vetsuisse Faculty at the University of Bern. His research primarily focuses on bacterial host-pathogen interactions, with special emphasis on pore-forming toxins produced by Clostridia, particularly Clostridium perfringens β-toxin and its effects on host cells. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical veterinary applications, utilizing in situ investigations in naturally diseased animals alongside cell- and molecular biology techniques.

Posthaus's research interests center on understanding the molecular mechanisms of bacterial toxins, particularly how clostridial pore-forming toxins interact with host cells. His group has made significant contributions to identifying Platelet Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (PECAM-1 or CD31) as the cellular receptor for C. perfringens β-toxin. Through collaborations with structural biologists, his team determined the Cryo-EM structure of the transmembrane β-toxin pore, providing crucial insights into toxin function.

His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding clostridial diseases in animals, with recent work expanding to include Mycoplasma pathogenesis, viral infections in livestock, and novel diagnostic approaches. His research follows a clear trajectory from basic molecular mechanisms toward practical applications for disease prevention and treatment strategies targeting bacterial toxins.

Professor Posthaus leads an active research team including multiple PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, and serves as part of the COMPATH platform offering diagnostic and research support to other groups at the faculty. His work has significant implications for both veterinary and human medicine, as many clostridial diseases have zoonotic potential.

• Ana Carpio Espinosa (PhD student)
• Nil Hazal Ekenel (PhD student)
• Faezeh Farhoosh (PhD student)
• Jan Franzen (Resident/PhD)
• Alejandro Garcia Surio (PhD student)
• Basma Tarek (PhD student)
• Iva Cvitas (Post-Doc)
• Charlotte Griessen (Lab manager)
• Arunasalam Naguleswaran (Staff scientist)

The Posthaus group maintains strong collaborations with researchers at the University of Bern and internationally, including work with Prof. Benoit Zuber at the Institute of Anatomy and Prof. M. Degiacomi at Durham University. Their research is supported by grants including the SNF-Sinergia project DISPERSE, focusing on developing novel strategies against bacterial toxins to prevent or treat clostridial diseases in animals and humans.