Fusarium infections: molecular biology and diagnostics of an underestimated pathogen (FusInfect)

Fungi of the genus Fusarium are among the most important trans-kingdom pathogens. They are responsible for dramatic yield losses as plant pathogens, but can also cause serious superficial and invasive infections in humans (fusariosis). These result in severe outcomes, especially in immunocompromised patients, while an infection of the cornea (keratitis) primarily affects otherwise healthy contact lens wearers.

The research group FusInfect is integrated into the structural unit (Epi-)Genetic Regulation of Fungal Virulence. The project is carried out in close collaboration with the co-applicant Dr. Grit Walther from the National Reference Center for Invasive Fungal Infections (NRZMyk). It studies virulence mechanisms and diagnostics of the opportunistic human pathogen Fusarium. It is financed by the Free State of Thuringia and the European Social Fund Plus (ESF).