Project Portugal 2030

Summary

PROJECT OBJECTIVES This interdisciplinary project seeks to achieve the following: i) Compile a comprehensive collection of mycobacteria obtained from patients and household water sources, which will be integrated into the University of Coimbra Bacterial Culture Collection for wider scientific utilization. ii) Investigate the dysbiotic alterations in the gut microbiome of NTM patients resulting from NTM infection and prolonged antibiotic treatment, aiming to devise innovative strategies for restoring microbial balance. iii) Analyze the immune status of NTM patients and conduct genome sequencing to identify immune-related and genetic factors influencing susceptibility to NTM infection, providing insights into exposure risks. iv) Assess the impact of chronic NTM ingestion on mice, particularly on intestinal and systemic immune responses, to elucidate the causal links with chronic inflammatory conditions and leaky gut conditions. v) Compile essential data to advocate for the implementation of monitoring and control measures by public health authorities to mitigate NTM exposure in municipal water systems.