My laboratory develops improved methods of detecting, identifying and characterizing parasites that infect humans, as well as investigating pathogenicity and sources of infection.  Because culture is not possible as a means of enhancing detection of most parasites, sensitive methods are required to extract and amplify minute amounts of organism from complex matrices.  These capabilities advance the diagnostic power well beyond what has been available through classical microscopic techniques. We have developed and validated numerous RT-PCR assays for improved sensitivity and more precise identification. These include assays to detect Babesia microti, Giardia duodenalis, Cyclospora cayetanensis as well as multiplex assays to identify Plasmodium, Entamoeba and Cryptosporidium at the species level.  We also use nucleic acid amplification and sequencing to identify helminths.

My lab has capitalized on advances in deep sequencing to characterize malarial parasites for drug resistance. In collaboration with the CDC we are using targeted next generation sequencing to identify genetic relationships in Cyclospora in order to reveal infections that resulted from a common source.  We are also testing suspected foods to more quickly identify the cause of outbreaks. 

We work with epidemiologists in New York State and New York City, and use molecular methods to identify sources of contamination and link them to human cases of infection. My lab has explored the pathogenicity of Entamoeba dispar, which has been previously thought not to cause disease, but is emerging as a possible sexually transmitted parasite. Together with colleagues in the NYC Environmental Protection Bureau of Water Supply, Water Quality Science & Research we have investigated species of Cryptosporidium causing disease in New York City residents.