Research
We are interested in exploring the pathogenic mechanisms (related genes, proteins, pathways) and biomarkers by genetic engineering; and conducting projects that elucidate the effects of probiotics/prebiotics/natural metabolites on gut microbiome modulation to attenuate C. difficile infection (CDI) and recurrent CDI (rCDI). We would also discover new drugs (as antibiotics alternatives) and develop new systems to prevent and treat CDI/rCDI. Moreover, we will also be interested in extending therapeutic strategies to other emergency pathogens to improve human health.
Pathogenesis Studies
Pathogenesis studies is the base to know about CDI/rCDI, which will lay the foundation for further development of new strategies for CDI/rCDI therapy.
We apply genetic engineering tools including CRISPR-Cas9 systems to demonstrate roles of genes, proteins and related pathways in biofilm formation, antibiotics-resistance of C. difficile, communication between C. difficile and other gut microbes, as well as host-pathogen interaction.
Gut Microbiota and CDI
Gut microbiota is closely related to CDI, and CDI usually occurs under gut microbiota dysbiosis conditions. The healthy gut microbiota plays an important role in combating CDI.
To alleviate gut microbiota dysbiosis and improve gut health, we develop gut microbiota modulators such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics, and study their effects on reducing CDI/rCDI through the gut microbiota-gut metabolome way.
New Drugs Development
Currently, the first line treatment for CDI/rCDI are still antibiotics. While the frequent occurrence of antibiotics resistance in C. difficile led the Center for Disease Control and Prevention to announce CDI as an urgent public threat.
To explore new drugs, we discover beneficial metabolites from lactic acid bacteria such as bacteriocins, isolate phages in killing C. difficile strains, and develop potential anti-C. difficile drugs from natural products. The success of developing new drugs will reduce or replace antibiotics use in treating CDI/rCDI in an efficient and healthier manner.
Gut Health Related Diseases
Gut microbiota is closely related to human health, and gut microbiota dysbiosis has been reported to be related with various human diseases.
We collaborate with other research teams to develop therapeutic strategies through gut microbiota modulation for alleviating gut microbiota dysbiosis related conditions such as ageing, IBD, obesity, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.