Simply Speaking
Andreas’ research is based upon identifying genes which make a person or animal resistant, or susceptible to infectious diseases. His research is carried out on mouse models, as the genetics of mice are very well known and the mice can be kept in a controlled environment. Different strains of mice are infected with either Streptococcus pyogenes or Listeria monocytogenes. The DNA of susceptible mice is then compared with the DNA of the resistant mice. Regions of DNA (DNA markers) were then used to choose and then to cross breed susceptible and resistant mice. From this data, he can now identify which genome makes a mouse more likely, or less likely to be infected. This data can be used to find out which DNA markers in humans or other species show a higher or lower risk of infection.
Streptococcus pyogenes can cause Scarlet fever, skin infections, and if it gets into the bodies circulation, it can be fatal. Listeria is particularly dangerous for people with a weak immune system and particular for pregnant women. If the bacteria get into the blood stream they can pass from mother to child, severely infecting the unborn baby, and can lead to miscarriage. It is for these reasons that Andreas’ research is so important, to find out which defence mechanisms are missing, how the risk of infection can be lowered.