Vaginal virome/microbiome, maternal response and reproductive outcomes
We are examining human samples to analyze the comprehensive vaginal and bacterial communities and maternal host response longitudinally over pregnancy to compare those who deliver preterm and term. In addition to this, we are using cell culture and mouse models of virus infection to understand mechanisms by which the physiological changes of pregnancy effect and are affected by virus infection. We hypothesize that consideration of both the microbes and host response together will enhance understanding of maternal-microbe interactions and help identify biomarkers and potential mechanisms for preterm birth.
Rapid characterization of the vaginal microbiome/virome in pregnant women
We are developing a panel of probes for the NanoString nCounter platform that can rapidly and inexpensively assess bacteria, viruses and small eukaryotic microbes of interest in vaginal samples. This assay will be used to test samples from pregnant women to assess risk for preterm birth.
Viral pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory lesions of the placenta
We are comprehensively analyzing placental tissue and blood from pregnant women to determine whether viruses and antiviral inflammatory profiles are associated with chronic placental inflammation. Ultimately, our ability to predict and/or prevent chronic placental inflammation will improve pregnancy outcomes and child health. In addition, we are using murine models to understand the underlying causes and effects of viral pathogenesis in the placenta.
Microbial community disruption following topical antimicrobial application in Staphylococcus aureus-affected households
We are serially associating skin and nasal microbial community structure with phenotypic outcomes in individuals at high risk of MRSA acquisition, defining alterations in the skin and nasal microbiota in temporal relation to topical antimicrobial application and discovering how these alterations associate with acquisition of pathogenic or multidrug-resistant species.