Specialization
Molecular Micriobiology
Bacteriology
Intestinal Organoid culture
Focus of research
Understanding the zoonotic potential of Streptococcus suis
Streptococcus suis is an opportunistic pathogen in pigs and an emerging zoonotic pathogen. S. suis is the main cause of bacterial meningitis in Thailand and Vietnam, and causes zoonotic infections worldwide. Human infections are linked to pig exposure, either by pig-related work or the consumption of undercooked or raw pig products.
Due to the foodborne nature of S. suis infections, we study the translocation across human intestinal epithelium of different S. suis in an intestinal organoid model. We hope to identify genes S. suis needs to cross the human intestinal epithelium and by which human receptor is involved.
In the Netherlands, a new zoonotic clade has emerged. This clade has acquired a phase variable type 1 restriction-modification system, which allows for swift changes in genome methylation. We aim to understand how this system functions and try to determine if the system contributes to the zoonotic potential of this clade.