Life Sciences Seminar: The Peculiar Lifestyle of an Important Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen
Life Science Seminar
The Peculiar Lifestyle of an Important Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen
Dr. Terry Wright
Associate Professor, Pediatrics Infectious Disease and Microbiology and Immunology
University of Rochester Medical Center
Abstract:
Pneumocystis are a family of respiratory fungal pathogens that cause life-threatening pneumonia (PCP) in immunocompromised patients. Pneumocystis has evolved a unique host-dependent lifestyle that ensures its’ widespread persistence throughout the human population, and nearly all at risk patients are exposed to this pathogen. While PCP has been historically associated with AIDS, cancer, and transplantation, the clinical use of newly developed potent anti-inflammatory agents has created new populations who are at-risk for infection. Our laboratory works to understand how host-pathogen interactions lead to either effective immunity in healthy individuals, or severe disease in patients with compromised immune function. We have used our basic research findings to identify potential vaccine targets, and to design and evaluate novel treatment regimens to improve patient outcomes.
Intended Audience:
All are Welcome!
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Event Snapshot
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This is an RIT Only Event
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