Unlocking the potential of biofilm properties in beneficial microbes for One Health advancements – Biofilm1Health

The "Biofilm1Health" joint laboratory program is a collaboration between the "Biofilms and Spatially Organized Communities" (B3D) team at the Micalis Institute (UMR 1319 INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay) and Lallemand SAS. It aims to harness the beneficial properties of microbial biofilms to offer biotechnological solutions that reduce the prevalence of harmful microorganisms in agriculture and public health sectors. This partnership incorporates advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance the understanding and effectiveness of positive biofilms in various environments.
In the face of rising antibiotic and antimicrobial resistance, exacerbated by intensive agricultural practices and the excessive use of chemical products, it is crucial to develop sustainable alternatives. Biofilms, often seen as pathogenic entities, show promising potential for biocontrol. By exploring this potential, "Biofilm1Health" seeks to implement strategies for controlling animal diseases and zoonoses while reducing the environmental impact of human activities.
The B3D team at the Micalis Institute brings its expertise in microbiology, particularly in the study of the three-dimensional structures of biofilms and their interaction with the environment. Their collaboration with Lallemand SAS will transform this knowledge into innovative products tailored to the realities of the agricultural market and public health.
The project is structured around several research and innovation axes, including the selection of microbial strains, the optimization of product formulations, and the development of in-situ evaluation methodologies to test the effectiveness of the proposed solutions. The approach integrates advanced analyses, such as confocal microscopy and AI technologies, to predict pathogen-biofilm interactions and optimize the practical applications of beneficial biofilms.
Finally, the sustainability strategy of the LabCom "Biofilm1Health" includes diversifying application fields, industrial and commercial development of innovations, and extensive communication to enhance its scientific and technological impact. The governance of the laboratory is ensured by a steering committee and a scientific committee that oversee the progress of the work and the valorization of results, respecting the commitments of shared intellectual property between INRAE and Lallemand SAS.