LABORATORY OF VIRAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

Research lines

Our research focuses on innovative and complementary strategies to existing approaches for combating Influenza A (H1N1) and SARS-CoV-2 viruses, integrating human and animal health within a One Health framework.

RESPIRATORY THERAPIES: Nebulization of anti-H1N1 immune plasma as a rapid-acting alternative for patients with chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies conducted using a mechanical ventilator demonstrated that the JET nebulization system, designed for home use, preserves functional integrity, providing a foundation for future therapies based on previously patented nanobodies.

VIRAL RETINITIS: Development of a therapeutic candidate screening platform based on a model of secondary retinitis resulting from infection of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells with H1N1 or SARS-CoV-2. For SARS-CoV-2, we developed a pseudovirus (PSV-S1) that enables research to be conducted under BSL-2 biosafety conditions. Using these two systems, we aim to evaluate the effects of therapeutic candidates, including agonists of molecules with anti-inflammatory activity, apoptosis inhibitors, and antiviral nanobodies.

ANIMAL HEALTH: Development of probiotics functionalized with anti-H1N1 nanobodies for application in swine production systems, with the aim of improving animal health and production profitability.