Current antimicrobials typically ablate large sectors of complex microbial communities that are characteristic of many tissue surfaces. Recent research evidence supports the importance of preserving key components of polymicrobial flora in achieving a stable therapeutic outcome. In the oral cavity chronic periodontitis has been strongly linked to the keystone pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis that acts to promote a dysbiotic microflora. A desirable outcome in the prevention and management of this common disease would be the selective removal of this organism with preservation of potentially beneficial commensals. Dr Gao's research team is based on a long-held interest in the disease-causing mechanisms by pathogens, in particular the processes underlying scavenging and metabolism of essential nutrients in pathogens at the host bacteria interface. The long-term research plan is built on a series of previous and ongoing projects with the aim of developing novel antimicrobials toolkits by strategic arming of substrates critical for targeted periodontal pathogen P. gingivalis, as well as building a chairside molecular pathogen detection and drug monitoring platform.
