Thomas Lab
Welcome! Our research program focuses on how streptococcal pathogens colonize mucosal surfaces of the female reproductive tract and urinary tracts of both men and women. We are also interested in how these bacteria evade host immunity to drive successful infection and disease. We utilize molecular microbiology, bacterial genetics, cell-based assays, immunological profiling, and in vivo murine infection models to address questions at the host pathogen interface.
Our long-term goal is to define conserved, tract relevant virulence mechanisms in Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) and Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) and translate these insights into prevention strategies. We investigate how surface-associated factors, particularly conserved proteins such as ScpB, promote mucosal adherence, persistence, and immune evasion. We evaluate their potential as vaccine antigens to reduce maternal colonization and downstream neonatal disease.
In parallel, we develop non-antibiotic approaches for GBS urinary tract infection by identifying active cranberry phytocompounds that disrupt colonization and enhance immune-mediated clearance, with the goal of enabling mechanism-based prophylaxis, especially in pregnancy.
If you are interested in joining my lab, please see Join the Lab.
Mission Statement
The Thomas Lab studies how Streptococci colonize mucosal surfaces and cause disease. Through the integration of molecular biology and microbiology techniques, we conduct rigorous, mechanism-driven research to generate knowledge that informs prevention and treatment while mentoring trainees into confident, independent scientists.
