Our laboratory is involved in studies to fully understand the mechanisms involved in the induction of protective immunity against a variety of microbial pathogens through vaccination and in host-microbial interactions in inflammation. We are also investigating the use of Salmonella mutants containing cloned genes for surface virulence determinants of S. mutans (and other pathogens) as vehicles for delivery of antigens to GALT for the induction of protective IgA responses. Other studies in humans and rats are investigating the role of lymphoid cells and their factors in inflammatory responses, specifically periodontal disease. Studies are aimed at assessing the effects of microbial factors on T cells, monocytes/macrophages, or fibroblasts and how these effects influence host inflammatory responses.
