Biofilms: microbes in society
Romain Briandet’s research primarily revolves around the study of microbial biofilms. These complex, three-dimensional communities of microorganisms are prevalent in diverse environments, from industrial settings to the International Space Station. His work aims to understand the formation, structure, and behavior of biofilms, particularly their role in food safety and public health.
Key research areas:
- Biofilm Dynamics and Structure:
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- Investigating the spatial organization and phenotypic heterogeneity within biofilms.
- Understanding how biofilms adapt to environmental changes and resist antimicrobial treatments.
- Utilizing advanced imaging techniques, such as confocal laser scanning microscopy, to study biofilm architecture in real-time.
- Food Safety:
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- Exploring biofilm formation on food processing surfaces and their role in harboring pathogens.
- Developing innovative strategies to control biofilms in the food industry, ensuring safer food production and storage.
- Identifying molecular determinants that influence biofilm formation and persistence of foodborne pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp.
- Innovative Control Strategies:
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- Designing preventive and curative approaches using physical, chemical, and biological treatments to manage biofilms.
- Investigating the use of beneficial biofilms to prevent the establishment of harmful microorganisms.
- Exploring the application of motile bacteria and bacteriophages to disrupt and eliminate pathogenic biofilms.
- Biofilms in Space:
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- Studying the behavior of biofilms under microgravity conditions.
- Developing strategies to mitigate the risks posed by biofilms in space habitats.
Join us!
Discover more about our interdisciplinary work combining microbiology, molecular biology, and imaging. For collaboration and further information, reach out to our team B3D – Biofilms and Spatially Organized Communities.
