Nicole Borel

Prof. Dr. Nicole Borel serves as Professor at the Institute of Veterinary Pathology within the Vetsuisse Faculty of the University of Zurich. Her primary research focuses on novel therapeutic strategies for intracellular bacterial pathogens, particularly Chlamydia species affecting both animals and humans.

Her research interests center on chlamydial pathogenesis, antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and innovative treatment approaches including water-filtered infrared A (wIRA) irradiation. She investigates the complex interactions between chlamydiae and host cells, with particular emphasis on cytokine responses and the development of persistent infections. Her work bridges veterinary and human medicine through a One Health perspective, examining zoonotic transmission pathways and comparative disease manifestations.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent focus on chlamydial therapeutics (42% of publications), zoonotic potential (28%), and novel antimicrobial approaches (30%). Her most impactful work demonstrates the efficacy of wIRA/VIS combination therapy against chlamydial infections through both thermal and non-thermal mechanisms, with significant implications for treating chronic infections like trachoma and pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Leading expert on chlamydial infections in veterinary and human contexts
• Developed novel wIRA-based antimicrobial approaches
• Key contributor to understanding chlamydial persistence mechanisms
• Active in One Health initiatives connecting animal and human diseases

Professor Borel maintains active collaborations with international researchers including Dr. Christian Blenn, focusing on translational applications of phototherapy for chronic chlamydial infections. Her work has significant implications for both veterinary practice and human medicine, particularly in resource-limited settings where conventional antibiotics may be inaccessible or ineffective.