We are currently studying the ability of the host to respond to infection with Staphylococcus aureus.

1. Using an in-vitro model we are deciphering the mechanism by which S. aureus results in intracellular infection of mammary epithelial cells and suppresses subsequent immune responses.
2. We are elucidating the presence of S. aureus specific memory T cells in infected animals.
3. Through in-vitro culture of dendritic cells we are outlining the immune response to S. aureus.
4. A porcine model of polymicoribal infections has allowed us to study the ability of viral infections to predispose the host to secondary bacterial infections.