Journal of Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Dr. Wen received his PhD in molecular microbiology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May 1998. He worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry Center for Oral Biology, Rochester, New York from 1998 to 2001 and as a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Biology at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida from 2001 to 2008. Dr. Wen joined the faculty at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans in May 26, 2008 as an Assistant Professor with a primary appointment in the Department of Oral and Craniofacial Biology and a secondary appointment in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology. Dr. Wen is currently serving as an Associated Professor with tenure in oral biology and microbiology.

The primary interest of Dr. Wen’s research is in the areas of microbial genetics and ecology of oral biofilms. Currently, a major effort is being directed to molecular characterization of Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation and identification of novel strategies against cariogenic biofilms and human dental caries. In collaborative effort, Dr. Wen also works on intra- and inter-species communication and its impact on the development, stability, and ultimately, pathogenicity of the plaque microbial communities.