How to understand complexity: harness the power of simplicity
Posted 6th March 2020 by Joshua Sewell
One of the most powerful tools in science is the use of simple models that can represent a wide range of other similar systems.
Even with genetic modification, resistance may be a nasty problem
Posted 22nd November 2019 by Liv Sewell
Natural resistance to our methods to control pests and weeds is a brand new phenomenon, historically speaking. It only evolved as mankind started to use chemical, and later biotechnological means to control nature. Genetic modification may not be the answer to resistance. Attempts to control pests and weeds by growing GM plants run into the same problem as the application of chemical agents. But still, nature may provide some answers.
Targeting C. difficile Infection with Next-Generation Probiotics
Posted 7th September 2018 by Jane Williams
Antibiotic use can disrupt your body’s protective microbial barrier and open the door to pathogens and illness. Our research focuses on developing next-generation probiotics that would selectively prevent infection by the bacterium Clostridium difficile, a gastrointestinal pathogen that produces toxins resulting in watery diarrhoea and in severe cases, pseudomembrane colitis, toxemia, sepsis and death.
Genes, Food and the Environment
Posted 18th June 2018 by Jane Williams
This article was originally published in Health Europa Quarterly on 3 May 2018, and is published here with permission.
Speaking at the 5th Microbiome R&D & Business Collaboration Forum: Europe, Alexandra Zhernakova, Associate Professor of the Human Genome and Exposome at the University of Groningen, outlined her research into the interaction of genes, food, and the environment with the gut microbiome. She also considered the role of the microbiome in gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).