Description

This line aims to expand knowledge about the pathogenesis and clinical features of infectious diseases with skin involvement and skin disorders that may be affected by infectious agents. It aims to develop innovative approaches for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), to closely monitor and improve the quality of life of STI/HIV patients, to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of major hospital-associated pathogens and develop novel antimicrobial therapies. The proposed goals will be achieved through the synergistic effort of multidisciplinary teams and the use of cutting-edge tools..

STIs are a major health problem worldwide. Several STIs have ri-emerged since 2000, highlighting that preventive and treatment strategies are still unsatisfactory. The global HIV epidemic is far from reaching an end. Despite the efficacy of cART, there are major concerns for people living with HIV (PLWH) in terms of risk of cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and emergence of HIV drug resistance mutations under pharmacological pressure.

In recent years, it has become clear that the human microbiome is a predictive biomarker of infections, an important cofactor predisposing to cancer, and a crucial player in maintaining skin health and protecting against pathogens. Disruptions in microbial communities are associated with various skin disorders such as acne, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and chronic ulcers. In addition, specific profiles of the human microbiota may favor the acquisition and persistence of STIs. Understanding the complex interactions between microbes and their host is essential for developing personalized therapies.

Finally, the global increase in AMR has become a major threat, especially in vulnerable populations requiring frequent antibiotic treatments. Addressing the role of the skin microbiota in disease and the growing challenge of AMR requires innovative research that combines metagenomic profiling and antimicrobial development strategies.

Objectivies

This line of research aims to:

• develop new preventive strategies and treatment options for STI/HIV;
• improve the prevention and treatment of HIV-associated comorbidities;
• monitor and improve the quality of life of patients with STI/HIV;
• improve our knowledge of the interaction of the human microbiota with viral infections and virus-associated lesions;
• elucidate the role of the skin microbiota in various skin disorders;
• address AMR by identifying key biomarkers and developing innovative treatments.

Annual objectivies

In addition to what was said above:

1. Increase in the number of scientific publications in indexed journals.
2. Application for and/or winning of competitive grants.  
3. Increase in the number of public or private funding for research projects related to the specific themes of the Research Line.
4. Establishment of national and international research networks, also measurable by the number of co-development contracts.
5. Patentable products (definition of biomarkers, diagnostic and analytical kits, active pharmacological molecules).