Skin microbiota survey in occupationally exposed populations

The exposome framework has emerged as a key paradigm in occupational health research, aiming to capture the cumulative impact of occupational and environmental exposures across the life course. However, its implementation is limited by the lack of biological markers that are both informative and compatible with large-scale, minimally invasive sampling strategies. There is a critical need for integrative biomarkers capable of reflecting multiple types of occupational exposures.

The skin microbiome represents a promising candidate in this context. As the primary interface between the human body and the working environment, the skin and its associated microbial communities are continuously exposed to chemical, physical, and biological agents. Increasing evidence suggests that occupational and environmental conditions can significantly modulate skin microbiota composition, with potential consequences for immune function and health.

This project aims to assess the potential of skin microbiota profiles as effect biomarkers of occupational exposure. A cross-sectional study will be conducted in worker populations with well-characterized exposure to specific occupational hazards and compared with non-exposed controls. By identifying exposure-associated microbial signatures, this research seeks to establish the skin microbiome as a novel, non-invasive tool for occupational exposome assessment and prevention.