The influence of pathogen co-infection on the pathogenesis of African trypanosomiasis

African trypanosomes are single-cell extracellular protozoan parasites and are transmitted between mammalian hosts by blood-feeding tsetse flies. Animal African trypanosomiasis is caused by Trypanosoma congolense, T. vivax and T. brucei, and inflicts substantial economic strains on the African livestock industry. After injection into the skin by the tsetse fly, the parasites undergo morphological adaptation to the mammalian host. The parasites then invade the afferent lymphatics to reach the draining lymph nodes, and disseminate systemically via the blood and lymph. Prolonged infections are possible because the trypanosomes express a large repertoire of antigenically distinct surface coats, which enables them to evade antibody-mediated elimination by the host. During infection the host’s macrophages are stimulated to help clear the parasites. However, the over-reaction of these cells to the parasites causes significant immunopathology and suppression of parasite-specific immunity.

Much of our understanding of the pathogenesis of African trypanosomiasis has been derived from the study of experimental transmissions to mice or cattle. In the field situation natural host species such as cattle are continually exposed to many other pathogens, especially gut helminths. Furthermore, helminth infections can influence susceptibility to other pathogens such as Salmonella. But whether an ongoing immune response to these pathogens also influences host susceptibility to, and the pathogenesis of African trypanosomiasis is not known. For example, by enhancing or reducing the pro-inflammatory response to the infection or macrophage activation status. This project aims to address this important issue. Mouse models will be used to determine the influence of gastro-intestinal helminth co-infection on African trypanosomiasis pathogenesis. No vaccines are available to block African trypanosome infections. A thorough understanding the factors that influence disease susceptibility will help reveal novel targets for effective intervention and prevention.

This project will provide excellent training opportunities in the following transferable skills: in vivo biology; bio-imaging; cell culture; transcriptomics.

For further information please contact Prof Neil Mabbott ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Liam Morrison ([Email Address Removed]).

Application procedures
Applications including a statement of interest and full CV with names and addresses (including email addresses) of two academic referees, should be emailed to [Email Address Removed].
When applying for the studentship please state clearly the title of the studentship and the supervisor/s in your covering letter.

All applicants should also apply through the University’s on-line application system for September 2018 entry via http://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/degrees/index.php?r=site/view&id=831

Applicants for the Principal’s career development studentship must also complete the specific on-line application form.

Applicants for an Enlightenment Scholarship must also complete the specific on-line application form.
ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE CLOSING DATE 16th January 2018