lacamp

The overall research emphasis is the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of chlamydial pathogenesis. Chlamydia pneumoniae, a human respiratory pathogen, has been associated with cardiovascular disease and found in atherosclerotic lesions. A major current focus is on elucidating the role of C. pneumoniae in atherogenesis through the use of animal models of C. pneumoniae infection and atherosclerosis and in vitro models. These models are also being used to investigate therapeutic interventions and develop preventive strategies. Efforts are also focused on host/pathogen interactions to elucidate the mechanisms by which Chlamydia enters the host and the host receptors involved.