Study of the molecular mechanisms underlying helminth parasite-host interactions

Our main objective is to decipher the molecular crosstalk that exists between helminth parasites and their hosts as a result of their co-evolution to design control tools against these infectious agents, as well as therapeutic applications based on the generated knowledge. Our workflow involves three steps that connect and interrelate all of our research projects: 1) Establishment of host-parasite models: We replicate the complex life cycles of parasites in the laboratory using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches. 2) Study of molecular mechanisms: We employ cutting-edge techniques in molecular biology, multi-omics, and gene editing to identify and characterize the host-parasite molecular dialogue. 3) Therapeutic applications: We design vaccine candidates to improve the control of diseases caused by helminths, but we also harness the significant modulating potential of these organisms to propose new anticoagulants or antivirals for human health.