Gowanus Canal, Brooklyn NY
In 2004 an attempt was made to identify what lies beneath the Gowanus canal by our team.
In 2008 a discovery was made.
The Global Microbial Diversity Project is based upon these findings.
The Host Microbiome Project takes a unified view of life, examining how tiny microbes — from ancient cyanobacteria blooms to the trillions dwelling within our gut — impact our health, the environment, and even our evolutionary history.
From the vast oceans teeming with cyanobacteria blooms to the intricate ecosystem within the human gut, microbes have a profound effect on our planet and its inhabitants.
Searching for Cures
The cyanobacterial microbiome is a rich source of novel bioactive compounds. Exploring the interactions within the hologenome (host and its microbiome) can lead to the discovery of new drugs, antibiotics, and other therapeutic agents.
This concept applies to cyanobacteria and their associated microbiomes, suggesting that the interactions between cyanobacteria and their microbial partners are integral to their survival, adaptation, and evolution.
Overview
Welcome to our innovative platform designed to transform cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (HABs) into sources of new drug discoveries. We integrate advanced research methods, comprehensive data collection, and collaborative tools to streamline the journey from field sampling to bioactive compound application.
Key Components
Field Sampling & Data Collection
Efficient, accurate environmental sampling for high-quality data.
Laboratory Information Management (LIMS)
Streamlines lab workflows and ensures data organization.
Bioactive Compound Extraction & Analysis
Advanced extraction techniques to isolate potential drug candidates.
Genomic & Metagenomic Analysis
Tools for genome assembly, annotation, and microbial community analysis.
Cell Culture & Machine Learning
Predicts metabolite–stem cell interactions and identifies drug candidates.
Collaboration & Citizen Science Portal
Online forums, discussion boards, and project management tools for collaborative research.
Our Goals
Environmental Impact: Understanding and mitigating harmful algal blooms while discovering new medicinal compounds.
Public Health: Developing new treatments for diseases, benefiting global health.
Join us in repurposing cyanobacterial HABs for cures and contributing to a healthier planet and population.