Hygiene and environment - IM
This sector focuses on characterizing organisms isolated from various environments (natural and built) using classical microbiology methods, molecular biology, metagenomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. The MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is applied for microorganism identification and typing. Research addresses antibiotic resistance in the environment, identification and typing of microorganisms potentially dangerous to humans, animals, and the environment, and the spread of pathogens in the environment, including wastewater. HyEn sector closely collaborates with the Biosafety sector especially in the field of environmental epidemiology. Emerging topics include microbiology applied to biodegradation in the conservation and restoration of artwork and microbiology in the built environment, in collaboration with the Institute of Materials and Construction and the Institute of Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment. Additionally, the bioinformatics team plays a vital role in numerous IM projects, fostering increased collaboration with IDSIA.
Molecular methods and bioinformatics
Research focuses on developing classical microbiology methods, such as isolation, culturing, and testing for specific phenotypic traits; molecular biology approaches, particularly PCR (amplification of specific DNA regions) and sequencing; and proteomics for identifying and characterizing proteins to obtain "fingerprints" of microorganisms.
Natural environment
Human activities have a significant, often negative, impact on the environment, particularly aquatic ecosystems. The natural environment is closely linked to human and animal health, requiring a synergistic effort to maintain its quality. The Microbiology Institute adopts the "One Health" approach, which aims to improve global health and engages in various environmental monitoring projects in the region.
Built environment
As part of the Department for Environment Constructions and Design, the Microbiology Institute conducts studies related to built environments, such as indoor spaces within buildings and homes. These studies aim to identify the microorganisms present (e.g., molds, bacteria, viruses), assess their relationship with construction factors (e.g., age, humidity, ventilation), and evaluate their potential impact on the health of occupants. Collaborations with the Institute of Materials and Constructions at DACD are integral to these investigations.
From left: Da sinistra: Juan Diaz Miyar, Isabel Rodrigues Fernandes, Federica Mauri, Elisa Pianta and Sophie De Respinis