In Silico Design and Optimisation of Novel Host-Directed Therapies

Pulmonary fungal infections caused by the mould Aspergillus fumigatus range from allergic
disease to invasive infections with high associated mortality. The resultant disease phenotype is
largely due to the immune response mounted by the host in response to infection. Treatment of
these infections is challenging due to the limited antifungal options available, and increasing A.
fumigatus antifungal drug resistance. This research project will focus on the designing and
optimising immunotherapeutic regimens. The action of these immunotherapies will be exerted
through modulation of the host's immune system. Furthermore, we will investigate the role of
fungal immunotherapies as adjuvants to antifungal drug regimens to devise optimum treatment
options and reduce mortality due to A. fumigatus infection