Dr. Christopher Whidbey's lab at Seattle University focuses on understanding the vaginal microbiome and its influence on women's health, particularly in relation to bacterial vaginosis and preterm birth. Using a technique called activity-based protein profiling, the lab studies specific enzymes within the microbiome to identify those associated with healthy conditions versus those linked to disease. This research aims to inform the development of new probiotics or drug therapies that could improve vaginal health and prevent reproductive health issues.