Research
Technological advances
From a scientific standpoint, the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Virus has clearly demonstrated the essential role of the technological advances and knowledge generated by decades of research to fight this virus in particular as well as various other infectious diseases. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of fundamental research to prepare for the next epidemic or pandemic. In this context, the Infectiopole regroups a critical mass of researchers, the only one of its kind in Quebec, working towards a better understanding of the mechanisms associated with the development of infectious diseases, as well as the development of novel prophylactic, diagnostic and therapeutic tools for the prevention and the control of these diseases.
Research areas
In a pluri- and interdisciplinary approach, the researchers of the Infectiopole focus on five distinct and interdependent aspects.
Host - pathogen interactions
Understanding the determining factors for these diseases by studying the interactions between a pathogen and its host.
Optimization of drugs used in treatment
Optimizing treatment through the improvement of available molecules as well as the synthesis of new compounds
Increasing vaccine efficacy
Improving the efficiency of vaccines, their production and administration.
Development of essential diagnostic tools
Developing essential diagnostic tools to detect and fight infectious diseases.
Understanding the origin and the modes of transmission
Discovering the origins of infectious diseases through epidemiological research.