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Zhiheng Pei's work primarily focuses on the effects of microbial pressure in relation to disease states and how alterations in a patient's symbiotic bacterial biota can influence chronic inflammatory diseases. His research encompasses various conditions associated with chronic inflammation such as aging, atherosclerosis, cancers, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. The human body houses a diverse array of bacteria, outnumbering human cells significantly. Under normal circumstances, these commensal bacteria play a crucial role in the development of the mucosal immune system, maintaining the physiological environment and providing essential nutrients. However, disruptions in the balance of these bacterial populations can lead to pathogenesis. Pei utilizes innovative methodologies to analyze bacterial biota, which has led to significant advancements in understanding the etiology of various idiopathic chronic diseases. His laboratory notably investigates the role of bacterial biota in the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma and reflux-related disorders. This work aims to uncover how the hypothesis of gastric acid reflux interfaces with these microbial populations to influence disease progression.
Open Program in Biomedical Sciences (Vilcek Institute) covers departments like Biochemistry, Pathology, Neuroscience, Microbiology, etc.