Our Research

We investigate the role of C. auris adhesins in fungal pathogenicity. Our studies focus on identifying cell surface proteins that mediate adhesion, biofilm formation, colonization, and persistence in the host. Using molecular genetics and infection models, we aim to define how specific adhesins contribute to virulence and evaluate their potential as therapeutic or vaccine targets.

We study the interactions between C. auris and host cells to understand the mechanisms that govern colonization, immune recognition, and disease progression. Our research examines fungal responses to host environments and the innate immune pathways that influence infection outcomes, with the goal of identifying host and fungal factors that can be targeted to enhance antifungal immunity.

We develop immunological strategies to prevent and treat C. auris infections, including vaccine candidates and antibody-based immunotherapies. Our work focuses on identifying protective fungal antigens, defining immune correlates of protection, and evaluating novel approaches that enhance host defenses against infection.

We develop next-generation antifungal therapeutics based on antimicrobial peptides to combat drug-resistant fungal pathogens. Our research focuses on identifying and engineering peptides with potent antifungal activity, defining their mechanisms of action, and evaluating their efficacy against fungal biofilms and invasive infections.

We develop and utilize animal models to investigate the pathogenesis of fungal infections and evaluate novel therapeutic and immunological interventions. Our studies examine host–pathogen interactions, immune responses, fungal dissemination, and disease progression in vivo, providing critical platforms for advancing translational fungal research.