Plant-cyanobacteria symbiosis

Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge in the areas of microbiology and molecular biology applied to agriculture, with a particular focus on optimizing soil health and crop efficiency through the use of innovative and sustainable technologies.

In the context of global challenges such as climate change, food security, and environmental sustainability, our group is dedicated to exploring and understanding the complex interactions between soil microorganisms and plants. These investigations have the potential not only to reveal fundamental biological processes but also to transform agricultural practices towards more ecological and productive methods.

Our research lines include:

1) Molecular Mechanisms of Symbiosis between Cyanobacteria and Plants:

Our main scientific focus is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that regulate symbiosis between nitrogen-fixing atmospheric cyanobacteria (nostocale cyanobacteria) and cultivated plants, specifically rice (Oryza sativa). We utilize integrated approaches of genomics, proteomics, as well as transcriptomic and functional mutant analysis to decipher how the interactions between Nostoc punctiforme and Oryza Sativa promote plant growth and nutrition. This research line is focused on revealing the biochemical pathways and critical regulatory signals necessary in this mutualistic association.

2) Microbial Studies and Health of Agricultural Soils:

We explore the microbial diversity and ecological function of microbes in agricultural soils, with a special focus on the rice marshes of the Guadalquivir. Through high-throughput sequencing techniques and metagenomic analysis, we assess how agricultural practices impact the soil microbiome and its capacity to sustain ecosystem health and crop productivity.

3) Design and Application of New Microbial Biofertilizers:

We develop biofertilizers based on cyanobacteria and other soil microorganisms, selected for their effectiveness in enhancing plant growth and health. This work includes the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of potential strains and the optimization of formulations for field application. The goal is to offer viable and ecological alternatives to conventional chemical fertilizers, thus reducing the environmental footprint of intensive agriculture.

4) Colaboración con la Industria:

Fomentamos la transferencia tecnológica y la colaboración público-privada para asegurar que nuestros hallazgos científicos se traduzcan en innovaciones aplicables. Nos comprometemos a proporcionar soluciones basadas en evidencias que mejoren la sostenibilidad y la eficiencia de la producción agrícola global.