Neonates are not "little adults", therefore their immune systems function differently than those of adults. Since adults are a well-studied population, it is easy for one to look at the challenges neonates face with fighting infection and view it as a deficit in comparison. Kyra seeks to show the mechanistic differences in neonatal immune function are an immunodeviant phenotype that results from the context of rapid growth and development associated with the perinatal time period. Broadly, Kyra is interested in how the systems of normal development contribute both positive and negative affects to fighting infections. Shedding light on the positive effects of development, such as the maturation of the intestinal barrier post-birth, will provide insight on potential treatments to boost optimal healing across the lifespan. Additionally, investigation into the negative effects, such as a challenge in creating memory cells, will allow for the identification of targeted treatments to boost those functions, create more effective vaccinations, and form infection-reduction strategies. Currently, Kyra is investigating the role of altered iron homeostasis in morbidity and mortality associated with early-onset sepsis. She is also investigating the role of arginine metabolism and pulmonary function during the critical switch from neonatal to fetal circulation.

Honors/Awards

Immunology T32 Pre-Doctoral Training Grant (2025-2026) 

CIRTL, Practitioner Level (2025) 

Featured Poster, MSPR (2024)

Trainee Poster Award, AAI (2024)

Publications

Watral KP, Kaufman DA, Boly TJ, Bermick JR. Growth inhibition of common neonatal pathogens differs between bovine lactoferrin products. J Med Microbiol. 2025 Aug;74(8):002056. doi: 10.1099/jmm.0.002056. PMID: 40880444; PMCID: PMC12396925.