Assoc Professor John Tagg
Research:
Associate Professor Tagg's research is concerned with investigation of the production of bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances (BLIS) by certain species of gram positive bacteria. These studies have been directed toward attempting to understand the role these agents may have in allowing a particular microorganism to achieve dominance in a highly complex competitive environment, such as dental plaque. Aspects of this study currently under investigation include the isolation and biochemical characterisation of a number of BLIS, investigations of the genetic basis of their production, and commencement of trials with human subjects to determine whether these agents are able to prevent bacterial infections when produced in the oral cavity. Other studies carried out in this laboratory have included a longitudinal survey of the microorganisms in the oral cavities of a group of 100 Dunedin schoolchildren and evaluation of the role of streptococci in the development of dental caries and streptococcal pharyngitis.
Other Interests/ Activities:
Vice President New Zealand Microbiological Society; Committee "Hands on Science" summer school for secondary school students.