Plasmid Biology and Evolution lab
Tracing the evolution of antibiotic resistance
Dismantling superbugs one plasmid at a time
The vectors behind a global health challenge
Plasmids are crucial in bacterial ecology and evolution, facilitating the horizontal transfer of genes between different bacteria. The most striking example of this phenomena is the global spread of plasmid-mediated antibiotic resistance over the last few decades. By studying plasmids ecology and evolution, we aim to better understand their role in resistance spread and uncover new strategies to tackle the growing threat of AMR.
An in-depth look at plasmid-bacteria dynamics
Discover our latest research project
By using cutting-edge CRISPRi technology, we will explore how antimicrobial resistance (AMR) plasmids influence bacterial physiology and identify potential new treatment targets. Additionally, we aim to design novel therapeutic approaches that exploit these interactions, including drugs that target AMR plasmid effects and existing antibiotics that leverage collateral sensitivity.
The PBE lab team
Our experts in microbiology and genetics
The Plasmid Biology and Evolution Lab is led by Álvaro San Millán and brings together a dedicated team of researchers and technicians. We are part of the Department of Microbial Biotechnology in the Spanish Centre of Biotechnology (CNB) in Madrid, which belongs to the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).
