Our Purpose
Our Laboratory Research Unit aims to provide basic and translational knowledge about the natural history of infectious diseases, pathogen-host interactions, and their relationship to therapeutic responses using a multidisciplinary approach. We use a OneHealth approach to integrate human, animal, and environmental health, focusing on eco-social determinants and how climate change and climate variability impact climate-sensitive infectious diseases. By doing this, we want to inform early warning systems, strengthen surveillance, and contribute to the development of strategies for the control, diagnosis, and treatment of events that affect public health in Colombia and the region. As part of this, we also want to promote resilience and adaptation to climate risks.
RESEARCH LABORATORIES
Our research laboratories are designed and equipped to meet the specific needs of various pathogens and disciplinary approaches, including immunology, molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
The Molecular Biology and Biochemistry laboratory specializes in implementing high-throughput technologies such as proteomics, metabolomics, and transcriptomics of microorganisms and their hosts. We conduct functional analyses of genes, metabolic pathways, and signaling pathways to cover a broad spectrum of molecular research. This ranges from discovering candidate molecules for therapeutic interventions, diagnostics, or biomarkers to validating their functionality.
Our Immunology and Cell Biology laboratory focuses on understanding the functional aspects and phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of the host immune response to pathogens and/or drugs. We aim to identify intervention strategies and modulate the immune response for improved clinical outcomes in infectious diseases.
Our Microbiology Laboratory studies the pathogenicity mechanisms and transmission dynamics of important public health microorganisms, focusing on genomics and genomic epidemiology. We use targeted and untargeted methodologies to integrate whole genome sequencing (NGS). We perform these analyses in the context of research projects with various national and international collaborators.
The BSL-2+ laboratory is a secure workspace for handling microorganisms present in the community that are associated with moderate or severe human diseases. Compared to a conventional BSL-2 laboratory, this type of laboratory includes enhanced biosafety measures, such as the mandatory use of biosafety cabinets and personal protective equipment. Its design enables the study of moderately hazardous infectious agents while protecting personnel and the environment.
The Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory uses highly complex platforms to quickly and accurately detect genetic material from viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Using RT-qPCR, we confirm infections in the early stages and characterize resistance markers. We provide timely evidence to support clinical and public health decision-making. Our operations adhere to quality assurance, sample traceability, and biosafety standards, ensuring reliable results.
This laboratory specializes in detecting leishmaniasis, a tropical disease spread through the bites of infected sandflies. The laboratory performs diagnostic tests on clinical samples to confirm the presence of the Leishmania parasite. These tests combine traditional methods, such as microscopic examination, with molecular techniques. The laboratory's work supports the timely treatment of patients and research into this neglected disease that affects vulnerable communities.
SUPPORT LABORATORIES
Our Biobank offers comprehensive support to our research teams and processes, both internally and in collaboration with other institutions. It focuses on managing, preserving, and safeguarding biological and human samples, along with their associated clinical and/or research information. We adhere to rigorous quality standards and comply with national and international ethical and legal regulations. Additionally, we provide specialized services for storage in cryopreservation facilities and processing samples from research projects.
Our Materials laboratory provides essential support to research equipment and processes, as well as diagnostic services, by preparing and sterilizing materials, solutions, culture media, and disposing of biological waste. All procedures are conducted in accordance with national legal requirements and the highest quality standards.
