MICROBIOLOGICAL FOOD CONTROL LABORATORY OF THE NUTRITION SCHOOL (LACOMEN)

In this laboratory we have as a principle to identify the microorganisms that may be in foods and which are, or not, recommended by the legislation through molecular techniques such as PCR. Genes that can confer resistance to antibiotics in microorganisms are also performed. Moreover, after isolation of the microorganism from this DNA is extracted and checked for genes encoding biogenic amines, virulence among other genes and even to confirm which species the microorganism is. It is estimated that at least 25% of all modern medicines are derived directly or indirectly from medicinal plants, mainly through the application of modern technologies to traditional knowledge. For certain classes of pharmaceuticals, such as antitumor and antimicrobial drugs, this percentage may be greater than 60% (Brazil, 2012; WHO, 2011). Medicinal plants play an important role in human nutrition in all age groups as a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. In addition, there is also concern with the efficient use of non-renewable natural resources, maintenance of biodiversity, environmental preservation, economic development and quality of human life in a sustainable environment (Brito and Freitas, 2004; Vagenas et al. 2014). Therefore, LACOMEN searches for microorganisms that may be in food and which are, or are not, recommended by law; microorganisms with antibiotic resistance; plants that may inhibit the growth and development of microorganisms. There is also work on genomics, nutrigenomics and resist omics; molecular characterization of plants or microorganisms; search for genes that express substances that may cause antimicrobial activity.