UNLOCKING-QS addresses one of the main threats to health: antimicrobial resistance (AMR) linked to infectious diseases.
The lack of effective diagnostics is a key factor driving AMR, as broad-spectrum antibiotics are often prescribed without identifying the pathogen. This project proposes a new generation of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting bacterial quorum sensing (QS), a sophisticated communication system that uses chemical signals (QSsm) to maintain community life and synchronize behavior to develop pathogenesis.
QSsm could act as infection biomarkers, and blocking them would allow for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. These hypotheses have been partially demonstrated in previous research by the group, and UNLOCKING-QS seeks to consolidate these results by measuring the QS footprint (QSome) in prospective biological samples, as well as exploring the therapeutic potential of antibodies targeting QSsm as QS disruptors.
In recent decades, bacterial infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens have become a global problem. This situation is aggravated by the ability of microorganisms to form biofilms, present in 80% of human infections, which hinder the action of antimicrobials. Current strategies, based on compounds such as quaternary ammonium, metals or antibiotics, present toxicity and environmental impact problems. This project proposes the development of environmentally friendly antimicrobial materials and formulations based on biodegradable compounds, such as biopolymers, naturally derived ionic liquids and surfactants derived from amino acids. Antimicrobial polymers will be designed to prevent colonization, as well as nanoparticles and adjuvant systems to eliminate biofilms. Their properties, efficacy, cytotoxicity and environmental impact will be evaluated. The results will contribute to the development of safer and more sustainable antimicrobial strategies.
Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and a large proportion of these are due to bacterial pathogens, especially in hospital settings. Furthermore, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat, exacerbated by the overuse of antibiotics to treat these infections due to the lack of rapid and specific diagnostics.
In this context, this project aims to develop and take the first steps toward the commercialization of a rapid diagnostic test based on LFIA technology to diagnose P. aeruginosa and S. aureus infections at the point of care. The proposed devices will detect bacterial quorum sensing molecules, specific to each pathogen, in a few minutes and at a low cost. The project aims to create a spin-off company to drive the transition of these tests from the laboratory to the market.
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