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RESEARCH

Functional Amyloids in the extracellular matrix of bacterial biofilms

Interspecies interactions and impact to the health of plants

In plant organs, Bacillus coexist with other bacterial species or fungi. They can live in harmony or compete for nutrient or space, and depending on additional environmental conditions, a switch may happen between these ecological relationships. Biofilms have been studied as single species, but the reality is that multiple species can be integrated in this social community. In this research line, we are exploring how the extracellular matrix modulate the interaction of Bacillus with other bacterial or fungal species, and the ecological implications during their interaction with plants.

The extracellular matrix in the interaction bacteria-plant

Microbes live freely in the environment but also in association with diverse host, humans, plant or insects. In our group we are interested in understanding how beneficial or human pathogens interact and communicate with plants. To do this study we are working with B. subtilis, B. velezensis and closely related B. cereus. Considering the relevance of biofilm in the life cycle of bacteria, we want to really deciphering the functionality of this style of life during the interaction bacteria-plant, how component of the extracellular matrix mediate this communication, and how the plants modulate this bacterial developmental program.