THE SPANISH NETWORK OF BACTERIOPHAGES AND TRANSDUCER ELEMENTS (FAGOMA)

Due to the importance of bacteriophages in all natural environments, and also in those under the human influence, where these viruses can modulate the abundance of the bacterial microbiota, research on bacteriophages maintains a constant growth. On the other hand, the potential applications of bacteriophages, for instance, in the therapy of infectious diseases (Phage Therapy) and in the improvement of food safety (Biopreservation), constitute research lines of great interest. In this context, it should be noted that there are several research groups in Spain with notable international prestige, dedicated to the study of bacteriophages, which justified the creation of the Network of Excellence in 2011. The Network was created with the aim of promoting the collaboration between the different groups and obtaining, through it, a desirable synergy that allows us to maximize the results of the joint effort. In addition, the annual meetings of the Network have facilitated the sharing of results and techniques, promoting collaborations, new ideas and projects, and thus contributing to the advancement of knowledge. The renewal of Network during three later stages demonstrates its strength, which is increasing thanks to the interest of the new groups that joined in recent years.

At present, the “FAGOMA” Network faces a new stage, in which the collaborations and synergies established between the groups that make up the Network allow us to tackle much more ambitious objectives. In addition to the sharing of results and techniques, the network makes a joint effort to transfer this knowledge beyond the academic environment. This is being approached by transmitting these advances to society, promoting collaborations with companies, as well as by the dissemination of research through outreach programs and social networks.