Research in my lab focuses on host immune responses to the challenge of oral bacteria and their influences on the progression of periodontal diseases. We are studying the molecular mechanisms that regulate the intensity and duration of oral bacteria-mediated inflammation. Our long-term goal is to identify novel therapeutic targets to redirect the dysregulated inflammatory responses. We are also investigating the pro-tumorigenic properties of oral bacteria, especially the effect of porphyromonas gingivalis colonization on the progression of oral and esophageal cancer, and are elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved in this process.
