We use genomics and proteomics data to mine for potential microbial moieties that could be investigated as novel therapeutic targets. Through genetic manipulation, we construct isogenic mutants in the genes encoding those moieties and complement them. Then, this set of strains (the wild-type, the mutant, and the complemented mutant) is scrutinized in a series of experiments both in vitro and in vivo to validate if they this moiety is indeed involved in the virulence of the pathogen understudy. After validation, libraries of natural and synthetic compounds are screened first in silico then in in vitro to determine if we can identify potential molecules that can interact with the identified microbial moiety to interfere with its role in causing infection in the host. Promising hits are then further characterized, tested, and modified to enhance their bio-activity. Our work in this area is focused towards the most notorious pathogen,
Acinetobacter baumannii, which is showing increasing resistance to almost all the available antimicrobials.