Welcome to the Serapio-Palacios Lab

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Microscopic view of neurons with red and blue neural connections and surrounding cells.

Uncovering

Gut Health

by studying the mechanism of pathogen-host interactions and bacterial competition

The Serapio-Palacios Lab investigates how pathogenic and commensal bacteria interact with the intestinal epithelium, with a particular focus on bacterial secretion systems and mechanisms of colonization resistance. By combining molecular and cellular microbiology, in vivo animal models, and omics approaches, we aim to elucidate how bacteria compete for a niche in the hostile gut environment and how they hijack the host cellular responses to cause disease.

Investigating Host-Microbe Interactions

Close-up of a biological tissue sample under a microscope with fluorescent coloring, showing intricate internal structures.