Bing-Yan Wang, DDS, DMSc, PhD

Bing-Yan Wang, DDS, DMSc, PhD, 2010 Tarrson Fellow:

1. What is your research focus?

Oral bacterial interactions in dental plaque.

2. What has/have been the most significant contribution(s) of your research to our specialty?

ArcA (a surface protein) of Streptococcus cristatus attenuates the fimA gene expression in Porphyromonas gingivalis, which in turn prevents P. gingivalis colonization in vitro and in a mouse model. There is a negative correlation of S. cristatus and P. gingivalis in subgingival plaque of patients with chronic periodontitis.

3. What are some future directions of your research program?

To assess the prevalence and levels of P. gingivalis and S. cristatus in dental plaque, before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy in patients of different races; and to determine the correlation between clinical microbial profiles and treatment outcomes in patients with chronic periodontitis of different races.

4. What influence did the support from the Foundation have on your career as a researcher?

For a periodontist in academics, receiving the support from the Foundation is not only an honor, but also alleviates my financial worries and gives me the peace of mind to concentrate on my research.