For more than 50 years, our group has studied the molecular mechanisms of bacteriophage replication Φ29, from a multidisciplinary perspective. Under the scientific and personal leadership of Professor Margarita Salas, multiple biochemical and genetic aspects of the virus life cycle have been unraveled. These results supported the development of a number of biotechnological applications.

The loss of Dr. Salas is undoubtedly irreplaceable. However, we are determined to make the necessary effort, not only to maintain its legacy but also to complete the current research projects. The excellence and scientific rigor that Margarita instilled in us will help us to complete this task, which we consider is the best way in which his disciples can pay homage.

Obituario de Margarita Salas in Nature

Main current research lines.

1. New aspects of DNA replication of bacteriophage Φ29 in vitro and in vivo.
   
   This line of research includes a detailed study of the subcellular localization of viral replication in Bacillus subtilis, its natural host, as well as new advances in the molecular characterization of the virus’s replicative machinery, through in vitro experiments.
   
   
2. Betatectivirus as a new model of replication of linear genomes initiated by terminal protein.
   
   Tectiviruses are icosahedral bacterial viruses, without glue and containing an inner membrane under the capsid and can infect Gram-negative (Alfatectivirus) or Gram-positive (Beta– and Gammatectivirus) bacteria. This group of viruses has gained relevance in recent years, thanks to various studies on its ecological and evolutionary relevance. We have recently characterized viral DNA polymerase and the mechanism of protein-primed genome  replication initiation of Bam35 virus, the model virus of the genus Betatectivirus. Currently, our work focuses on the characterization of viral DNA binding proteins, such as an a putative SSB (single stranded DNA binding protein), which may play an essential role in viral genome replication.
   
   Additionally, in collaboration with Annika Gillis and Jacques Mahillon (Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium), we are characterizing the replication mechanism of a new Betatectivirus.
   
   
3. New biotechnological activities and applications of viral DNA polymerases.
   
   In the last 10 years, in collaboration with Miguel de Vega (CBMSO, CSIC), our laboratory has developed variants of Φ29 DNA polymerase with improved amplification efficiency and capacity (1) as well as with enhanced  thermo-resistance (11). As a continuation of this price work, we are currently working on new variants of this DNA polymerase that allow the amplification of DNAs in different conditions.
   
   The characterization of Bam35 DNA polymerase (B35DNAP), allowed us to find a new enzyme with possible biotechnological applications. Like the Φ29 DNA polymerase, B35DNAP replicates the DNA faithfully, processively and coupled to the displacement of the non-replicated strand. In addition, this new DNA polymerase is capable of replicating damaged DNA templates (TLS capability). We are currently working on obtaining engineered variants that allow amplifying reluctant DNA samples.
   
   
4. Global study of the virus-host protein interactome through the use of double hybrid coupled to analysis by mass sequencing.
   
   The development of high-throughput methods allows the study of biological systems from a global point of view, in which each and every one of its elements are analyzed. For example, protein-protein interactions (PPI) in a given biological model can be comprehensively analyzed by modifying methods already known as the double yeast hybrid (Y2H). Through the application of this methodology, we are analyzing the PPIs for the first time in a virus-host model formed by a bacteriophage-bacterium, specifically, a system formed by the tempered Bam35 and its natural host Bacillus thuringiensis HER1410. This methodology will allow us to characterize in more detail the lineage and the virus-host relationships.
   
   
5. Encapsulation of transcription machinery.
   
   In collaboration with Paco Monroy (Universidad Complutense de Madrid) and within the consortium: Nanobiocargo, we are currently working on the encapsulation of the molecular machinery necessary for the transcription of Φ29 DNA within lipid vesicles. We will study the energy needed for this process, as well as the heat that dissipates. For this purpose we will use microscopy techniques and optical tweezers.