Research areas

The program’s research is distributed between two main areas: Biosciences and Biotechnology

Biosciences

In the area of Biosciences, basic research is conducted to generate knowledge applicable to the improvement of human health. The area includes experimental approaches linked to biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology. The research lines of the PPGBB linked to the Biosciences area are:

Biochemical, molecular, genetic or structural characterization of infectious agents and their hosts.

We aim to elucidate multiple mechanisms through which pathogenic microorganisms and viruses cause damage to their hosts. It is our aim to produce knowledge about essential characteristics of the physiology of these pathogens.

  • Ana Luisa P. Mosimann – Lattes
  • Andrea R. Avila – Lattes
  • Beatriz G. Guimarães – Lattes
  • Camila Zanluca – Lattes
  • Claudia N. D. Santos – Lattes
  • Fabiano B. Figueiredo – Lattes
  • Guilherme F. Silveira – Lattes
  • Juliano Bordignon – Lattes
  • Letusa Albrecht – Lattes
  • Lia Medeiros – Lattes
  • Marcio L. Rodrigues – Lattes
  • Nilson I. T. Zanchin – Lattes
  • Pryscilla F. Wowk – Lattes
  • Sheila C. Nardelli – Lattes
  • Stenio P. Fragoso – Lattes
  • Tatiana A. C. B. de Souza – Lattes
  • Tarcio Braga – Lattes
  • Wander R. Pavanelli – Lattes

Regulation of gene expression of microorganisms and parasites.

We aim to elucidate the mechanisms for regulation of the gene expression in protozoa, fungi and bacteria that cause disease in humans.

Molecular characterization of stem cells

The potential for using stem cells in biological models in human diseases is enormous. In this scenario, we aim to generate knowledge about the most essential properties of stem cells, as well as about their application in human health models.

  • Alejandro C. Dominguez – Lattes
  • Alessandra M. Aguiar – Lattes
  • Bruno Dallagiovanna Muniz – Lattes
  • Marco A. Stimamiglio – Lattes
  • Patricia Shigunov – Lattes

Biotechnology

The Biotechnology area aims to generate benefits for the health of the Brazilian population. In this area, we have three lines of research:

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics consists of a multidisciplinary and essential area for several sub-areas of Biological Sciences. In addition to generating scientific information, the area allows the processing of large volumes of data, which is indispensable for the design of prophylactic, therapeutic and diagnostic tools in human health.

Vaccine biotechnology and diagnostic tests

There is a clear need for novel tools for the prevention and diagnosis of a series of diseases of unquestionable importance for the Brazilian population. Thus, the Program develops several projects aiming at improving diagnostic and preventive tools in human diseases.

Genomics, proteomics and metabolome

The area of compositional studies in biological systems has been undergoing continuous growth, given its potential to contribute to the understanding of a series of mechanisms linked to the pathophysiology of human diseases. The Program develops several studies on genomics, proteomics and metabolome in human diseases, in full alignment with international scientific trends and in close connection with the area of Bioinformatics.