The research group ("Microbial Ecology, Nutrition and Health") focuses on human microbiome research. It has greatly contributed to elucidating the role the gut microbiota plays in the transition from health to disease, through its interaction with the diet and the host immune and neuroendocrine systems. The pathologies investigated include from obesity to neurological conditions. The team also works on the selection of keystone intestinal bacteria that could bring health benefits and the development of dietary strategies that, through the modulation of the microbiome, reduce the disease risk.