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Research | TARR LAB

Our laboratory is focused on several inter-related projects. The theme of our work pertains to specific enteric pathogens, as well as the interaction between bacteria. First, we maintain a surveillance network in the Pacific Northwest, whereby children under age ten who are infected with Escherichia coli O157:H7 are identified, and their progression into the hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) or their spontaneous resolution, are studied. This cohort provides an opportunity to delineate the pathophysiologic mechanisms leading to resolution or progression of this untreatable disorder. In recent years, and at present, we are focusing on prothrombotic derangements in the coagulation system, which lead to extraintestinal organ injury, which occur quite early in illness. Second, we are studying the etiology of unexplained diarrhea in urban and rural populations in the Pacific Northwest. We are attempting to determine the cause of childhood enteric infections in children in whom classic microbiologic diagnoses fail to yield a pathogen. Third, we are attempting to determine the risk factors for acquisition of foodborne infections, utilizing the same overlapping populations, also based in the state of Washington. Fourth, we are attempting to determine the evolutionary basis for acquisition of virulence loci by diarrheagenic Escherichia coli O157:H7, and other Shiga toxin-producing pathogens. Finally, we are beginning to explore microbial precipitants of inflammatory bowel disease in children.

The research group is recently relocated to Washington University from Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center and the University of Washington, both in Seattle, where Dr. Tarr has worked since 1980. The laboratory consists of Dr. Tarr, Nurmohammad Shaikh, Ph.D., Nicholas Holt, Research Technician II, Tara Sweeney, Research Technician II, Grant Simmons, Laboratory Assistant I, and Josh Aranda, Laboratory Assistant I.

Contact Information

Office Phone: 314-286-2848
Office Fax: 314-286-2895
Lab Phone: 314-286-2859
e-mail (Dr. Tarr): (Dr. Shaikh):

Office Location:
6105 McDonnell Pediatric Research Building

Mailing Address:
Department of Pediatrics
Washington University School of Medicine
Campus Box 8208
660 South Euclid Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63110

Shipping Address:
Washington University School of Medicine
McDonnell Pediatric Research Building, 6th Floor
4938 Parkview Place
St. Louis, MO 63110