In the Zlitni lab, we study the role of microbial communication in the assembly and function of the human microbiome, with a particular focus on how these interactions protect the host from infectious and chronic diseases. Trillions of microbes live on and inside our bodies, forming what can be described as an 'organ' that plays a critical role in health, physiology, and defense against pathogens. One of the field's biggest questions is how these microbes come together to form communities that perform essential functions for the host.
We combine microbiology, biochemistry, and advanced -omics technologies to investigate how microbial communication shapes both the assembly and function of the human microbiome. In addition to uncovering fundamental insights into microbial communication, we aim to leverage this knowledge to develop live biotherapeutic interventions that restore microbiota resilience when it has been compromised.