We are interested in the chemistry of small molecules obtained from macro- (algae and invertebrates) or microorganisms (bacteria, actinomycete and fungi) from marine and also in their potential industrial application. We have generated a large collection of isolates of microorganisms. Our purpose is to ferment these isolates, and to select them through bioactivity screenings.

Beneficial actions of probiotics (mainly focused to Bifidobacterium) and prebiotics, through the study of the interplay among the microbiota, gastrointestinal environment, the host physiology and immune system. Technological and microbial safety issues of probiotcs in dairy products. We incorporated, in close collaboration with nutrition researchers from other entities, the study of the interaction of diet and its components, with intestinal microbiota and human health. 3 staff Scientists have applied for their voluntary leave of the Group (4/5/2016).

Throughout its trajectory, the group has combined basic and applied research with the aim of improving the quality and safety of foods, mainly dairy products. To this end, two complementary lines of research are addressed: 1. Study of the functionality of starter and protective lactic acid bacteria to foster a sustainable dairy food chain providing optimized starters with improved technological traits that prevent failed fermentations. 2. Development of appropriate antimicrobials to ensure the quality and safety of food throughout the production chain (biopreservatives).

The main focus of our laboratory is to study cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the morphogenesis of the vertebrate eye.

Study of cellular mechanisms that interact with mitochondrial function and affect metabolism and ageing

Higher eukaryotes contain populations of stem cells responsible for the homeostasis of adult organisms. Often, these populations are found in microenvironments or ‘niches’ that prevent the pull towards differentiation characteristic of most cell types. One such a niche has been described in the Drosophila ovary, where germline stem cells (GSCs) are found.

Apoptotic microtubules network during the execution phase of apoptosis Selective mitochondrial degradation (mitophagy) in mitochondrial diseases

The general interest of the group is to understand the mechanisms involved in stem cell/progenitor cell differentiation during development and in transplantation. Our research is focused on the hematopoietic system and uses the mouse as experimental model. In particular, we aim to understand the key characteristics and differentiation mechanisms that distinguish fetal liver hemato/vascular stem/progenitor cells compared to counterpart progenitors from adult bone marrow and liver.

Gene Regulatory networks in plant development The global aim of the group is the characterization and understanding of gene regulatory networks underlying plant development, using a combination of genomic and genetic methods. Our work encompasses both the identification of novel components of those regulatory networks and of regulatory interactions among network components.