Research
Akkermansia genetics
We are working towards expanding the genetic toolbox for Akkermansia, a key bacterium that resides in the human gut and plays a pivotal role in maintaining our health. Through innovative approaches such as transposon insertion sequencing, genetic engineering, and comparative genomics, our aim is to unravel the mechanisms by which Akkermansia colonizes the mucus layer and identify the key factors that determine specific strain colonization patterns. By gaining a deeper understanding of these processes, our goal is to develop targeted probiotic Akkermansia strains with the potential to improve human health.
How does Akkermansia interact with other gut microbes?
Akkermansia co-exists with trillions of other microbes in the gastrointestinal tract. Cross-feeding interactions between Akkermansia and its neighbors have the potential to impact growth rates and colonization of the host mucus layer. We are investigating these interactions, their consequences for Akkermansia colonization, and their impacts on the host.
Life in the mucus layer
Akkermansia's favorite food is mucin, the main component of intestinal mucus. We are investigating how Akkermansia acquires and degrades mucins and other host glycans.
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