How does Aspergillus fumigatus activate the inflammasome?

Invasive fungal infections are a major cause of mortality, with more people dying from the ten main invasive fungal diseases than from tuberculosis or malaria. Despite the development of new antifungal drugs and medical procedures, mortality rates for these diseases remain extremely high. This is the case of fungal lung infections caused by the opportunistic mould Aspergillus fumigatus for which mortality can reach 90%.

A.fumigatus is a saprophytic mould which produces millions of small conidia (2–3 μm) that are released into nearly all human accessible habitats. The innate immune system provides the first line of defence against inhaled A. fumigatus conidia. Recognition of A. fumigatus by the host immune system leads to activation of the inflammasome, which provides protection against infection. It has been shown that structural components on the cell wall of Aspergillus conidia called beta glucans can trigger inflammasome activation. Additionally, inflammasome responses during fungal infections caused by Candida species relies upon morphological transformation to its hyphal appearance in a process driven by the release of a toxin called candidalysin. However, the specific hyphal factors that enable A. fumigatus to activate the inflammasome in macrophages remain to be revealed.

The aim of this project is to identify Aspergillus fumigatus factors that contribute to inflammasome activation. The Manchester Fungal Infection Group has developed the first-in-field genome wide knock out library of A. fumigatus. The candidate will screen A. fumigatus knock out mutants in genes we have previously defined as virulence factor, for inflammasome activation in macrophages using an in vitro model of disease. Defining Aspergillus hyphae-derived drivers of inflammasome response in macrophages will allow us to better understand the fungal mechanisms that determine the pathogenity of A. fumigatus and contribute to de discovery of new drug targets.

Entry Requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. Candidates with previous laboratory experience, particularly in cell culture and molecular biology, are particularly encouraged to apply.

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 Genetics

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.

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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 http://www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk