Research directions
Mechanisms of virulence and resistance of human pathogenic fungi
Invasive fungal infections are life-threatening diseases affecting immunocompromised or severely ill patients. The armamentarium of antifungal drugs is limited and resistance is emerging. Our laboratory mainly focuses on two pathogenic fungi:
i) Aspergillus fumigatus: this mold is the major cause of invasive aspergillosis, affecting patients with leukemia or organ transplantation. Resistance to azoles is emerging as the consequence of the widespread use of fungicides in the agriculture. We investigate the mechanisms of acquired resistance or tolerance to azole and echinocandin drugs.
ii) Candida auris: this multi-resistant yeast has recently emerged as a cause of nosocomial outbreaks in hospitals and therefore represents a public health concern. We investigate its mechanisms of acquired resistance to azole drugs.
