Skip to main content

Harnessing microbiology to tackle global challenges

Four plastic sample tubes containing liquids of different colours including green, orange and red

Chemical Interactions

Antimicrobial Resistance, Natural Products, Cell Biology

Microbial interactions are often mediated by chemical signals, which influence behaviours like cooperation, competition and survival. Beyond antimicrobial resistance (AMR), researchers at Norwich Research Park investigate the vast potential of microbial chemistry, including natural product biosynthesis and metabolite signalling.

The study of AMR remains a critical focus, as resistance to antibiotics poses a global health threat. Efforts include discovering new antimicrobial compounds, improving diagnostics, and understanding resistance mechanisms at molecular levels. Simultaneously, research on microbial metabolites reveals their roles in shaping ecosystems and influencing host interactions.

By combining medicinal chemistry, synthetic biology, and molecular biology, scientists aim to unlock the full potential of microbial chemicals. These discoveries could lead to innovative therapies, agricultural improvements, new surveillance methods and sustainable industrial applications.