Abstract

The gut microbiome is more than a collection of individual bacteria – it is a dynamic ecosystem where survival depends on interactions between species. In fact, these interactions can be more decisive for a bacterium’s fate than external factors like the host’s diet or drug intake. In this talk, I will explore how gut microbial communities navigate challenges such as nutrient scarcity and drug exposure, often revealing surprising survival patterns that defy predictions based on single-species behaviour. I will introduce how mathematical models can capture these emergent survival dynamics, enabling predictions of which species thrive or decline in a community context. By delving into the metabolic alliances and competitive strategies of gut bacteria, my research aims to offer insights into microbiome resilience, pathogen resistance, and the design of targeted probiotic therapies. Whether you are fascinated by the gut-brain axis, applied mathematics, or simply intrigued by the unseen battles (and friendships) within, this lunchtime seminar aims to make the microscopic world come alive.