Our research

Profiling Microbial Biochemical Functions

The functional composition of the gut microbiome can determine the balance between beneficial and harmful chemical conversion performed by microbes.  We are developing and applying chemical biology and functional omics approaches to characterize how microbial enzyme activities are altered as a result of disease, drugs & xenobiotics, diet, stress, and other exposures.

Drug & Xenobiotic Metabolism at the Host-Gut Interface

Biochemical activities of the gut microbiome are both impacted by and directly influence drug and xenobiotic metabolism.  We are studying functional redundancy, individual variability, susceptibilities, and impacts of various exposures on the drug and xenobiotic metabolism chemistries of the gut microbiome.  

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Exposures During Development

PAH exposures are a worldwide problem from pollution that can cause severe gastrointestinal issues.  We are characterizing the impact PAHs have on gut microbiome biochemical activities throughout mammalian development, and determining the mechanisms by which PAHs lead to poor health outcomes.

Carbohybrate and Mucin Metabolism

Dietary fiber is associated with beneficial health outcomes.  The gut microbiome plays important roles in the metabolism of complex carbohydrates and their subsequent fermentation to short chain fatty acids.  Dysregulation of microbial activities can result in poor carbohydrate metabolism, mucin foraging, increases in inflammation, and symptoms of irritable bowel diseases.  We are studying the mechanisms by which microbes perform carbohydrate and mucin metabolism, and how chemical exposures and disease alter these activities.