Santini Lab: Research Projects

🔬 Arsenic metabolism

We study how microorganisms metabolise arsenic compounds, investigating the genes and pathways that allow them to oxidise or reduce arsenic. This work provides fundamental insights into arsenic cycling in the environment and underpins strategies for biosensor development and bioremediation to detect and remove arsenic from contaminated water.

🧪 Arsenic sensor development

In collaboration with Imperial College and Bio Nano Consulting, we have developed a low-cost, handheld arsenic sensor. Designed for deployment in rural and resource-limited settings, this technology addresses the global challenge of arsenic-contaminated drinking water.

🌍 Bioleaching and extremophile microbiology

Our team explores microbial metabolisms in extreme environments including iron and sulphur metabolisms important for bioleaching, leading to improved metal recovery. 

🦠 Gut megaphages and phage-host interactions

We investigate a new family of viruses “Lak” megaphages, giant bacteriophages with genomes over 540 kb, found in human and animal gut microbiomes. Our research examines their genetic diversity, evolutionary origins, and interactions with key bacterial hosts such as Prevotella, offering new insights into microbiome dynamics and phage biology.

💊 Phage-based technologies and antimicrobial resistance

The lab is actively engaged in advancing phage-based technologies as solutions to antimicrobial resistance. We identify and characterise virulent phages with therapeutic potential and also harness their enzymes as novel antimicrobials. We also contribute to shaping UK policy frameworks to enable safe and effective translation of phage-based treatments into clinical practice.