Alejandro Pironti, ScD

My lab's research focuses on microbial genomics, antibiotic resistance, bacterial virulence, and the impact of the human microbiome on health.

We are particularly involved in the study of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, a critical area of biomedical research given the global rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Within NYU's Antimicrobial-Resistant Pathogens Program, we are working on cutting-edge genomic techniques to better understand and combat bacterial infections within nosocomial settings. We use computational tools to explore how bacterial pathogens develop resistance to drugs, aiming to improve both prevention and treatment strategies​.

A key component of my lab's work includes the analysis of bacterial virulence factors, such as those deployed by Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter hormaechei, two major human pathogens. We strive to identify and understand how virulence factors function and interact with the human immune system, particularly focusing on the mechanisms that make bacterial strains virulent or resistant to treatment.

In addition, my lab has explored the dynamics of the gut microbiome, including how changes in microbial composition during disease flares can influence conditions like lupus.