Neeraj K Surana
Neeraj K Surana

Neeraj K Surana

Assistant Professor of Pediatrics

Overview

My research innovatively integrates gnotobiotic murine models, immunology, microbiology, and characterization of the microbiota with the ultimate aim of identifying specific commensal bacteria with immunomodulatory potential and subsequent characterization of their biologic effects. We have recently developed an inventive approach for identifying with high specificity organisms within the microbiota that are causally related to the phenotype of interest. Using this approach of microbe–phenotype triangulation, we identified Clostridium immunis, a new bacterial species that protects against colitis in murine models, and two bacterial species that induce host expression of a critical antimicrobial peptide. We are now investigating the molecular mechanisms—from both the bacterial and host perspectives—that underlie these host–commensal relationships. Furthermore, we are extending our discovery platform to human samples and additional disease processes to identify more causal microbes.

Positions

Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the School of Medicine

2018 School of Medicine

Assistant Professor of Cell Biology in the School of Medicine

2022 School of Medicine

Assistant Professor of Immunology in the School of Medicine

2019 School of Medicine

Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology in the School of Medicine

2018 School of Medicine

Member of the Duke Cancer Institute in the School of Medicine

2022 School of Medicine

Education

Ph.D. 2006

2006 Washington University in St. Louis

M.D. 2006

2006 Washington University, School of Medicine

Residency, PEDIATRICS

2009 Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School

Fellowship in Pediatric Infectious Diseases, PEDIATRICS

2012 Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School

Publications, Grants & Awards

Offices & Contact

3 Genome Ct
Durham, NC
27710
Box 103055
Durham, NC
27710