Drug repurposing for the treatment of aspergillosis

The mould Aspergillus fumigatus was classified by the WHO as a critical priority pathogen in 2022. It causes a spectrum of invasive, allergic and chronic disease. It results in high mortality in the immunocompromised and causes a significant symptom burden in those with chronic lung disease. However, there are only three classes of drugs with meaningful activity against Aspergillus: the azoles, the echinocandins and the polyene Amphotericin B. The rate of resistance to the azoles, the only available oral agent, is increasing both in the environment and during treatment in patients, severely limiting our options to treat this fungus.

As newer agents may not reach the market soon, repurposing of existing drugs should be considered. After screening an FDA library of drugs for synergy with the antifungal voriconazole, we found the statins to be the most promising agents. Before embarking on clinical trials, real-world clinical data should be analysed to explore the potential for repurposing of existing drugs to treat aspergillosis. This project will aim to:

1. Identify suitable agents for drug repurposing in aspergillosis
2. Explore the effect of statins, agents shown to have antifungal properties in vitro, on outcomes of patients with diagnosed aspergillosis syndromes. This will be done by analysing primary care data through an existing research database. 
3. Explore the role of concomitant medications on outcomes of patients treated with antifungals. This will be done by analysing a large patient population with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis treated at a national referral centre.

Entry Requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Data Science, Biological Sciences or a related area / subject. Masters degree in biostatistics is desirable. 

How to Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select PhD Medical Mycology.

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/