Impact of Infection and Inflammation on Hematopoiesis
We are studying how infections affect the quiescence, epigenetic programming, and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells and their progeny. Our studies may lead to ways to prevent bone marrow suppression after chronic infections or enhance trained immunity. Funding to support this project: NIH R35, 2021-2028
The Role of Infection and Inflammation in Clonal Hematopoiesis
We are studying how the differential responses of hematopoietic stem cells to inflammation contribute to clonal competition and emergence of leukemia. These studies provide a mechanistic understanding of how infections affect cancer risk. Funding to support this project: NIH P01, 2022-2027
Microbiota-dependent Regulation of Primitive Hematopoiesis
An adverse side effect of antibiotics is that they may suppress blood and immune cell production by the bone marrow. We demonstrated that these adverse effects of antibiotics are due to disruption of the intestinal microbiome and associated type I interferon signaling. Our current work will define the molecular pathways through which the microbiome signals to support normal blood production. Funding to supporting this project: NIH R01 (co-I), 2018-2023
Intestinal microbiota depletion and antibiotic-associated neutropenia
Our lab developed a clinical project to analyze microbiome changes after prolonged antibiotic treatment in pediatric patients that are associated with the development of antibiotic-associated neutropenia, a side effect that can complicate up to 10-15% of antibiotic treatments. This video describes our current findings and future directions.
Stem Cell Study
Assistant professor of pediatrics - infectious disease Dr. Katherine King and postdoctoral fellow Dr. Katie Matatall discuss their work revealing that long-lasting infections trigger the loss of stem cells. The study appears in Cell Reports.