Associate Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Otago, Christchurch
Associate Professor Jacqui Keenan is a distinguished researcher specializing in the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases. Her work primarily investigates how outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) shed from Gram-negative bacteria influence epithelial permeability, inflammation, and DNA damage. Additionally, she explores the impact of diet on bacterial phenotype and host responses, aiming to elucidate environmental risk factors for sporadic colorectal cancer and early-onset colorectal cancer.
Her recent publications include studies on the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer in New Zealand, the role of biomarkers in detecting early-onset colorectal cancer, and the profile of Helicobacter pylori infections among children in the South Island of New Zealand.
Through her research, Associate Professor Keenan contributes significantly to understanding the complex interactions between gut bacteria, diet, and gastrointestinal health, with the goal of informing prevention and treatment strategies for related diseases.
