Hunting a silent killer - next generation precision diagnostics for Chagas disease
Supervisors
Professor Bjorn Andersson, Karolinksa Institute, Sweden
Dr Michael Lewis, University of Warwick
Summary
Chagas disease (CD), caused by the parasitic Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major public health threat, especially in Latin America, where it infects over 7 million people. CD is notoriously difficult to diagnose, with current detection rates as low as 10%. Treatment is often ineffective unless administered early, and the parasite’s genetic diversity poses challenges for reliable immunological assays.
Based at the University of Glasgow, with links to Karolinska (Sweden), and Warwick (UK) as well as partners in Bolivia and Argentina, this PhD project aims to dramatically improve CD diagnostics and treatment follow-up through two innovative approaches. First, it will explore non-invasive diagnostics by focusing on the skin as a potential niche for T. cruzi, using Raman and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Preliminary studies in animals suggest the skin may serve as a major infection reservoir. Second, the project will investigate the role of parasite genomic variation in diagnostic failure. By collaborating with leading researchers and utilizing genomic data, the project seeks to develop sensitive diagnostic peptides and new biomarkers for disease cure.
There will be a 30 minute Q&A Zoom call with Martin about their Project.
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