Dr. Solnick is an infectious disease physician whose research utilizes the rhesus macaque model to understand the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that is associated with peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. His work includes investigation of the mechanism of transmission among socially house rhesus monkeys, using molecular fingerprinting methods. He is also using gene expression technologies to examine the host-agent interaction, exploiting both DNA microarrays and real time quantitative PCR, during experimental infection with genetically characterized H. pylori strains. Parallel studies with naturally infected humans are also being performed. Gene expression is also being examined following immunizations designed to alter the Th1-Th2 immune responses, which have significant effect upon outcome of infecion. Finally, Dr. Solnick's research is interested in the evolution of genetic diversity of H. pylori during lifelong association of the bacterium with the immunologically responsive host. Results are revealing that modification of outer membrane proteins, particularly adhesin, may be a dynamic response of the bacterium during persistent infection. Please contact Dr. Solnick at jvsolnick@ucdavis.edu for further information.