LABORATORY OF MICROBIOME
Human Microbiome Laboratory is performing the studies on human metagenome in the Republic of Kazakhstan; development of functional foods and drugs to correct microflora, as well as developing the regulatory standard documentation; creating biobank samples of human microflora; the provision of practical healthcare, industrial and commercial enterprises by the analysis of the biological material using of advanced technologies in biomedical science; the creation of public associations: Kazakhstan Society of Human Microbiome Research.

MAIN RESEARCH AREAS

Integrative analysis of the human metagenome key signatures
This research area aims to develop a low-cost diagnostic panel for the gut microbiome. With increasing interest in metagenome analysis on an industrial scale, the microbiome laboratory is working on creating an extensive metadata database while implementing diagnostics for a healthy gut microbiome. This research will aid local biotech industries in pioneering medical services in the field of microbiome analysis.

Metagenomic predictors of childhood obesity, cross-talk with maternal microflora
The gut microbiome is a novel factor in maternal obesity and its associated risks in offspring. By conducting metagenomic analyses of maternal and infant microflora, we are investigating metagenomic predictors for childhood obesity.

Role of the gut microbiome in autoimmune diseases: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), vitiligo, rheumatoid arthritis, alopecia areata, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis pathogenesis
The lab explores how the gut microbiome impacts autoimmune diseases such as IBD, vitiligo, alopecia areata, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Using advanced biomedical tools, it identifies microbial signatures for diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.

Development of a microbiome marker panel for predicting chronic heart failure (CHF) outcomes
Pathophysiology of CHF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) significantly differs. There are pathophysiological differences in microbiome, metabolic, and immune markers between HFpEF and HFrEF. Network analysis of microbiome, metabolites, and biomarkers will allow for the development of personalized approaches to the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
MEMBERS
  • Almagul Kushugulova, PhD
    Professor and Lab Head
  • Samat Kozhakhmetov, PhD
    A/Professor and Leading Researcher
  • Laura Chulenbayeva, PhD
    Senior Researcher
  • Zhussipbek Mukhatayev, PhD
    Senior Researcher
  • Argul Issilbayeva, PhD

    Researcher
  • Madiyar Nurgaziyev
    Researcher
  • Zharkyn Jarmukhanov
    Researcher
  • Nurislam Mukhanbetzhanov
    Junior Researcher
  • Nurlubek Katkenov
    Junior Researcher
  • Symbat Seidulla
    Assistant Researcher
  • Artur Kovenskiy
    Assistant Researcher

EQUIPMENT

FLEXMAP3D
Luminex multiplex assays enable to detect and measure up to 80 secreted proteins at once using Invitrogen ProcartaPlex assays. They cover a vast range of over 600 targets, including cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors from various species like humans, mice, rats, and more. These assays provide valuable insights across different areas of biological research, helping to advance understanding and speed up progress in the field.
Microbiological complex
The complex of microbiology laboratories is built according to international standards. It consists of separate clean and dirty (with negative pressure) zones. Microbiology laboratories perform a wide spectrum of microbiological examinations. Equipped for sample preparation, culturing, and DNA/RNA/protein isolation, they specialize in testing samples from the gut microbiome, food, soil, water, and the environment.
QIAcube Connect
QIAcube Connect automates over 80 QIAGEN kits with over 140 standard protocols for DNA, RNA and protein sample processing. QIAcube Connect includes a centrifuge, heated shaker, pipetting system and robotic gripper that allow you to automatically purify 12 samples in a single run.