DGIMI - Diversity, Genomes and Insects-Microorganisms Interactions

DGIMI is a joint research unit supervised by INRAE and the University of Montpellier. It is located on the Triolet campus of the University of Montpellier, and houses staff from both INRAE and UM.

The research carried out by UMR DGIMI is devoted to the study of interaction mechanisms between insect crop pests, their pathogens and parasites, and their host plants. This research takes into account the diversity of the partners and is based on knowledge of their genomes.

Our research is part of three thematic networks that are managed by members of the lab: the local network on interactions between microorganisms and their hosts (IMH), and two national networks, one on the adaptation to biotic environment in Lepidoptera (ADALEP), the other centered on studies aiming at promoting the use of biological control against crop pests (EMBA).

The first axis (P2P) covers a wide range of research, from the study of the diversity and spatio-temporal dynamics of microbiota (bacterial and viral communities) associated with insects and entomopathogenic nematodes (EIN), to their role in insect-pathogen interactions. We also analyze how abiotic factors (temperature) or biotic factors (host change) affect these microbial communities and their role. In parallel, we are conducting research on the diversity and ecology of insect viruses in agrosystems, and on the mechanisms of viral pathogenesis, focusing on how viruses cross the insect intestinal barrier.

The second axis (PEGI) aims to decrypt the mechanisms shaping the adaptive success of insects, whether pests or auxiliaries. These mechanisms are studied taking into account the multiple interactions of insects with their biotic (plants, micro-organisms, human activity) and abiotic (temperature) environment, or in multi-stress situations. We are particularly interested in the genes and regulatory mechanisms involved in adaptive processes at both species and population levels. 

The aim of our research is to improve our understanding of natural regulation in agrosystems, and ultimately to help identify biological control strategies for crop pests.

In parallel with our research activities, DGIMI is heavily involved in teaching at the Montpellier University of Science, in microbiology (bacteriology and virology), immunology, genetics and ecology at Bachelor's and Master's level.

The unit's researchers and teacher-researchers are attached to the GAIA doctoral school.

Redactors: A-N Volkoff, I. Seninet (webmastering)