Abstract
The rapid urbanization of our planet is linked to a dramatic increase in the prevalence of immune-disorder diseases. The Old Friends and Biodiversity Hypotheses position microbial ecology as a central actor influencing human health, emphasizing the need of contact with biodiverse microbial communities that humans co-evolved with to have a well-functioning immune system. Urban green areas (UGAs) could provide these microbial communities if properly designed and managed, as per the Microbiome Rewilding Hypothesis. Whilst these hypotheses are widely accepted, little is known about specific taxa capable of transferring from the environment to humans and having a positive effect on the immune system. In this project, we aim to investigate how exposure to UGAs mediates the transfer of potentially beneficial bacteria from the environment to human skin and nasal microbiomes, and the possible impact of this transfer on human immune pathways. For this, we will use a highly original and extensive methodology that will cover three key aspects of this transfer by (1) exploring the bacterial ecology of UGAs and gaining insight into optimal UGA design, (2) identifying specific bacterial taxa capable of transferring from UGAs to humans, and (3) experimentally characterizing the immune and other benefits of these bacteria in human cells. With this project we will contribute to sustainable and resilient urban development and pave the way for reduction of public health costs in urban areas.
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