We aim at understanding how dietary inputs modify cellular phenotype and behavior. To this end, we use the bacterivore nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and its different bacterial diets. Both nematode and bacteria are genetically tractable which allows us to determine specific molecules from the microbe causing a measurable phenotype or behavioral change in the worm and the underlying changes in gene expression. We analyze the transcriptome of bacteria and worm under specific conditions to identify candidate molecules, followed by functional in vivo validation.
Neuronal protection. We use a model of genetically triggered neuronal degeneration of the gentle touch circuit in C. elegans, to study bacterial metabolites that delay and repair dying neurons. Additionally, we analyze the changes in the worm´s transcriptome, to identify genes that change in response to bacterial diets that promote neuronal protection.
Long-term strategies of survival under pathogenesis. We study the molecular triggers of transgenerational transmission of information that ensures long-term survival of populations of animals. Specifically, we hypothesize that in the pair pathogenic bacteria-worm, bacteria communicates with the animal in the form of small RNAs, which are processed by the RNAi machinery and give rise to an endogenous response that triggers the behavioral response.