Biomarker Breakdown: Combatting global fungal virulence, diagnostics, and resistance with Dr. Jennifer Geddes-McAlister

Fungal diseases are a growing global crisis, with increasing severity and widespread impacts. These infections, ranging from superficial to life-threatening, challenge public health and devastate agricultural crops, threatening food security worldwide. Addressing significant gaps in the prevention, detection, monitoring, and treatment of fungal diseases is crucial.

 

Hear from Dr. Geddes-McAlister as she shares how mass spectrometry-based proteomics identifies protein-level drivers of fungal virulence. By disrupting critical proteins and pathways, her work aims to weaken pathogens and prevent infections. She has developed dual-perspective protein production signatures for both host and pathogen, enabling precise diagnostic and prognostic insights. Her research uncovers novel drug targets by exploring host-pathogen interactions at the protein level, paving the way for therapeutic innovations. Additionally, her team combats antifungal resistance by targeting proteins that drive resistance, using chemical and genetic interventions to restore the efficacy of existing antifungal drugs. This integrated proteomics-driven approach offers transformative solutions to fungal pathogen challenges and advances global health initiatives.

 

Join us for an insightful presentation and extended Q&A session with Dr. Jennifer Geddes-McAlister, as she delves into her pioneering research, shares invaluable lessons learned, and discusses "Moms in Proteomics," her empowering STEM initiative supporting women in the field.

 

Learning Objectives