Characterizing the diversity of airway microbial species (fungal and bacterial microbiota) and the interactions between specific microorganisms during respiratory tract diseases in humans and animals
1. Characterizing the diversity of fungal and bacterial microbiota in the context of chronic respiratory diseases in humans and animals
In humans and animals, the respiratory tract represents a major portal of entry for many microorganisms, primarily those occurring as airborne particles such as fungal spores. Patients with chronic respiratory diseases are generally colonized with high levels of both bacteria and fungi and are more at risk to present respiratory infections. New technological advances such as NGS techniques, can overcome the limitations of conventional culture methods and allow understanding the microbial community. We use NGS approaches for the characterization of airway microbial species (microbiota) in humans and animals in combination with conventional methods, such as culture, which further allows genotyping and assessment of drug susceptibility.
Study the discrepancies between clinical response and microbiological results after antimicrobial therapy in patients with cystic fibrosis but also in patients with bronchectasis and in chronic sinusitis.
Study the airway microbiota in mammals and birds. How the composition of the microbiota may be modified by environmental conditions in animal facilities where animals may be constantly exposed to complex aerosols of various composition, such as fungicides ?
2. Characterizing the genetic diversity of A. fumigatus and S. maltophilia in the context of co-infection of the respiratory tract
S. maltophilia and A. fumigatus are archetypal representatives of opportunistic agents responsible for acute healthcare associated infections in immunocompromised patients and late onset chronic pulmonary infection in cystic fibrosis patients. Additionally, these two pathogens are both ubiquitous in the environment.
Study the genetic diversity of S. maltophilia isolates collected from patients coinfected by both opportunistic pathogens in respiratory diseases and perform a genotyping approach of S.maltophilia (MLST and Genogroup affiliation) from different environments as hospitals, soils, water, etc.
Study the genetic diversity of A. fumigatus isolates collected from patients coinfected by both opportunistic pathogens in respiratory diseases and perform a genotyping approach of A. fumigatus (MLVA) from different environments as hospitals, soils, water, etc.