Inflammatory and Diarrheal Diseases
Xi (Jason) Jiang, PhD
Professor
Department of Pediatrics; Division of Infectious Disease
Description of Research
Dr. Jiang’s research focuses on the interaction of Norovirus (NV) with human histo-blood group antigen receptors. He has characterized the receptor binding patterns of fourteen strains of NVs using recombinant virus-like particles (VLPs) generated from baculovirus-infected insect cells and identified eight receptor binding patterns defined by the ABO, Lewis, and secretory blood types of saliva donors. The eight binding patterns are classified into two binding groups: the A/B binding group and the Lewis binding group. A genetic relatedness has been found among strains with similar binding patterns. The molecular basis of the pathogen/receptor interaction has been further elucidated, including mapping of the binding domain and characterization of the binding interface. Based on these data, Dr. Jiang has proposed a model of the receptor/ligand interaction and initiated a study to screen antivirals against NVs by the computer-aided approach.
Collaborations and Core Use
Dr. Jiang collaborates with Dr. Morrow investigating how the glycans found in breast milk serve as a protective measure by inhibiting pathogens from adhering to their receptors in intestinal epithelial cells. Anticipated use of Cores: Integrative Morphology and Gene and Protein Expression Cores.
