Clinical Research Studies

Our ultimate goal is to improve our understanding of the complex interplay of host, pathogen, and microbiome in Staphylococcus aureus-associated skin diseases. These diseases include both frank infection such as skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) and inflammatory diseases with a known high burden of Staphylococcus aureus colonization such as atopic dermatitis. We believe a deeper understanding of the perturbations of S. aureus colonization versus infection and contributions of human host genetics to these perturbations will provide strategies for improved prevention and treatment recommendations. S. aureus gastrointestinal (GI) colonization is an understudied aspect of cutaneous disease and may represent a reservoir for colonization and recurrent infection. The focus of the present proposal will be to determine the role of GI colonization in two syndromes: S. aureus skin abscesses (SSTI; an infection) and atopic dermatitis (AD; a S. aureus-associated skin disease). Furthermore, given that understanding commensal interactions requires consideration of not only environmental but host factors, we will test for an association between GI colonization, microbiota, and host susceptibility gene ATG16L1. ATG16L1 is implicated in inflammatory bowel disease, and our recent work demonstrates that it is associated with S. aureus GI tract colonization in mice. Toward these ends, we will obtain patient data and biobank stool, peripheral blood, and S. aureus from both sets of patients.