Molecular mechanisms of biological adaptation
Molecular strategies and metabolic functions required for the adaptation of bacteria to extreme conditions, using metagenomic and metatranscriptomic approaches. Special interest in the rizosphere of plants from extreme environments.
Multicellularity and social behaviour in Bacillus subtilis. Study of genetic material transfer in bacterial populations by extracellular DNA.
1. Mechanisms of heavy metal and acid pH in planktonic and rizosphere microorganisms from the Tinto River
2. Mechanisms of high salt concentration and UV radiation resistance in microorganisms from diverse hypersaline environments (hypersaline ponds in antarctic, rhizosphere of halophytes, salt flats)
3. Mechanisms of cold resistance in microorganisms from the rhizosphere of antarctic plants.
4. Study of extracelular DNA production in B. subtilis and its relevance in horizontal gene transfer
5. Study of the multicelular structures formed by B. subtilis: cell division of work, cellular organization and signalling among different cellular types.