Investigating The Interface Between Host Innate Immune Cells And A Fungal Pathogen

Abstract

Fungi which infect humans are a major health problem, especially for those with compromised immune systems (eg. AIDS, transplant and cancer patients). These fungi cause disease by evading the immune system whilst deriving nutrients for growth. Some fungi evade the immune system by residing within host cells; a hostile and nutrient poor environment. This project will study a pathway that we have shown is required for growth inside host cells. This knowledge will open new avenues for treatment.