Molecular Microbiology

We are broadly interested in studying enteric virus-host interactions. We investigate the interface of rotavirus and SARS-CoV-2 replication and pathogenesis, host mucosal immune responses, and intestinal epithelial cell biology.

Research keywords: enteric viruses; mucosal immunity; virus-host interactions

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The overarching goal of our research program is to determine how epithelial cell-derived proteins can be harnessed to mitigate the risk of acute lung injury in various settings, to ultimately reduce the burden of end-stage lung disease. A major focus of our work involves distinguishing the role of locally-derived complement proteins in the lung from those present in the blood, and how they modulate the development of pneumonia and acute lung injury. We use multiple in vitro and in vivo approaches to dissect the mechanism by which these proteins contribute to cellular survival. Additionally, we draw upon a robust biorepository of lung tissue, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and DNA from human subjects to guide and validate our research.

We have active projects investigating lung injury due to pneumonia, and the short- and long-term consequences of ischemia-reperfusion injury occurring in the context of lung transplantation, with the ultimate goal of mitigating the morbidity and mortality occurring due to these forms of lung injury. Postdocs have the opportunity to develop an expertise in immunology, cell biology, bioinformatics, literature review, and scientific writing as they will address these questions.

Research keywords: Lung; Pneumonia; Transplantation

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We investigate adaptations for intracellular parasitism, focusing on the protozoan parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum. We currently employ a variety of genetic, biochemical and cellular approaches to address important biological questions. Our studies have revealed the importance innate immunity mechanisms in controlling infection and in parasite virulence factors that thwart innate defenses. We also have several translational projects aims at developing small molecule inhibitors to treat infect and these studies involve high throughput screening, structural biology. and medicinal chemistry.

Research keywords: microbiology; molecular biology; pathogenesis

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We investigate the interplay among the microbiota, stromal cells, and the immune system through the integration of microbiology and immunology with systems biology.

Research keywords: microbiota; stromal cells; immune system

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