Functional metagenomics

Construction of large insert genomic and metagenomic libraries

Functional screening of large clone libraries with thousands genomic or metagenomic DNA fragments >> Identification of bacteria – cell cross-talk

Implementation of cell-based bioassays using a high-throughput strategy >> Identification of functional bacterial genes and metabolic pathways involved in the dialogue with the host

Building of metagenomic libraries

Replication of libraries

Automatic culture of bacterial clones, followed by lysis and filtration

Development of new screening tools (cell based assay using the reporter gene technology)

High-throughput screening on human epithelial cells, including measurement of reporter gene activities (luminescence (HTS), fluorescence (HCS), absorbance)

Flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting

The design of functional metagenomic projects:
– Expert advice to design the study
– Construction of large insert genomic and metagenomic libraries
– Functional screening and analysis

High throughput screening from existing libraries: from the construction of the project to the analysis of the results

 Main research areas with our industrial partners:
– Screening for microbial species/strain that may interact with the host
– Identification of the function of a species/strain on a specific metabolic pathway: immunity, intestinal barrier, inflammation, taste receptor, oxidative stress.
– Impact of a molecule or nutrient on microbial metabolism (synthesis or catabolism: bacterial metabolites)