Detalle de: Fighting dysbiosis

Plant and animal health are closely linked to the composition and stability of their microbiomes. Environmental stressors can cause dysbiosis, leading to a less diverse and potentially harmful microbiome. The effects of climate change, nutrition, and other stresses on microbiome assemblage and function are not well understood. Identifying keystone species and regulatory mechanisms can help engineer more resilient microbiomes.

Describe. We first characterize the diversity of microbial communities associated with eukaryotic hosts across various conditions and developmental stages to identify core microbiome species linked to health and disease. Using multi-omics at both community and single-cell levels, we explore new microbial taxa, examine commensal and predatory relationships for stability and resilience, and study the communication pathways between microbiomes and their hosts.

Predict. By analyzing extensive microbiome datasets under diverse conditions, we aim to identify microbes and essential genes crucial for maintaining homeostasis. We develop mathematical tools to forecast potential dysbiosis and identify key microbial components needed to restore equilibrium in dysbiotic communities, paving the way for personalized microbiome management strategies.

Apply. The research aims to develop therapeutic strategies to alter bacterial composition using bacteriophages or microbial strains to combat harmful bacteria and restore balance during dysbiosis. By understanding keystone microbial genes, we aim to engineer therapeutic microbes and enhance host health through improved molecular communication between microbes and hosts.