https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1884-6309
Overview
We study the pathways by which microorganisms cross cellular barriers and the mechanisms by which these barriers restrict microbial infections. Our studies primarily focus on the epithelium that lines the gastrointestinal tract and on placental trophoblasts, the cells that comprise a key cellular barrier of the human placenta. Our work is highly multidisciplinary and encompasses aspects of cell biology, immunology, and microbiology. Our long-term goals are to identify pathogen- and host-specific therapeutic targets to prevent or treat microbial infections and ultimately to alleviate the morbidity and mortality caused by these infections.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
George Barth Geller Distinguished Professor of Immunology
·
2022 - Present
Integrative Immunobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Professor of Integrative Immunobiology
·
2023 - Present
Integrative Immunobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Professor of Pathology
·
2022 - Present
Pathology,
Clinical Science Departments
Professor of Cell Biology
·
2022 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Professor of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
·
2025 - Present
Molecular Genetics and Microbiology,
Basic Science Departments
Member in the Duke Human Vaccine Institute
·
2021 - Present
Duke Human Vaccine Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Member of the Duke Cancer Institute
·
2021 - Present
Duke Cancer Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Comparative analysis of rhesus macaque and human placental organoids highlights evolutionary differences in placentation.
Journal Article Dev Cell · February 11, 2026 Throughout evolution, the placenta has diversified in structure and composition while maintaining its essential role in supporting fetal development. Trophoblasts, cells responsible for nutrient exchange and immune modulation, are a conserved feature of al ... Full text Link to item CiteType I and Type III Interferons Differentially Shape Antiviral Defense and Epithelial Integrity at the Choroid Plexus.
Journal Article bioRxiv · February 11, 2026 The choroid plexus (ChP) forms the primary barrier between the bloodstream and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serves as a critical neuroimmune interface, yet how it responds to viral infection remains poorly understood. Here, we establish complementary ... Full text Link to item CiteTissue-resident macrophage and dendritic cells drive type I IFN immunity to enteroviruses in the liver.
Journal Article PLoS Pathog · January 2026 Enteroviruses are major causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality, with echovirus infections commonly associated with severe disease, including acute liver failure. The human neonatal Fc receptor (hFcRn) is the primary receptor for echoviruses, and its ex ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Model Systems Core (MODS Core)
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Weill Cornell Medicine · 2024 - 2029Interferon-inducible cell-intrinsic host defense against Chlamydia trachomatis
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2024 - 2028Microbial regulation of intestinal epithelial gene expression
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases · 2024 - 2028View All Grants
Education
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill ·
2003
Ph.D.