SPP Research Group
Swine PathoPhysiology
Bacterial diseases in pigs are a key focus of our research!
We use a multidisciplinary approach combining advanced microbiology techniques (including metabolomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, and molecular imaging), in vitro models (organ culture, organoids, and cell culture), and animal models to investigate host-pathogen-microbiome interactions associated with swine diseases.
Our research aims to characterize disease pathophysiology, identify critical mechanisms involved in infection, and discover potential targets for disease prevention and control, including vaccines and alternatives to antibiotics.
We translate this knowledge into practical solutions applicable in the field, helping to mitigate production losses associated with infectious diseases and improve animal health, welfare, and productivity.
We use a multidisciplinary approach combining advanced microbiology techniques (including metabolomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, and molecular imaging), in vitro models (organ culture, organoids, and cell culture), and animal models to investigate host-pathogen-microbiome interactions associated with swine diseases.
Our research aims to characterize disease pathophysiology, identify critical mechanisms involved in infection, and discover potential targets for disease prevention and control, including vaccines and alternatives to antibiotics.
We translate this knowledge into practical solutions applicable in the field, helping to mitigate production losses associated with infectious diseases and improve animal health, welfare, and productivity.
Research focus
Intestinal Pathogens
Currently, our main research focus on intestinal pathogens involves Brachyspira spp., an important group of intestinal pathogens affecting swine health and production.
Our ongoing investigations explore pathogen biology, host responses, microbiome interactions, and strategies to reduce the impact of enteric diseases in swine production.
Respiratory Pathogens
Currently, Streptococcus equi zooepidemicus is our primary respiratory pathogen of interest.
Our research focuses on understanding pathogen biology, virulence mechanisms, host responses, and interactions within the host environment, with the goal of developing innovative strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and control of disease in pigs.
Porcine Ear Necrosis
Our work involving ear necrosis focuses on understanding the complex interactions between pathogens, host responses, microbiome dynamics, and environmental factors involved in disease development.
We aim to characterize disease mechanisms, identify risk factors, and develop innovative strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and control of ear necrosis in pigs.