Molecular Mycology - Aspergillus fumigatus

We investigate stress signaling pathways in A. fumigatus to identify new targets for the development of innovative antifungal therapies.

The mold fungus Aspergillus fumigatus can cause infections in humans and animals under certain circumstances, particularly in immunocompromised patients as well as in animals experiencing husbandry-related stress. Due to limited treatment options, there is an urgent need for new antifungal therapeutic strategies. Our research group therefore investigates novel targets for innovative therapies. A particular focus is placed on signaling pathways involved in the pathogen’s stress adaptation.

Research focus

Signal transduction, subcellular organization, and pharmacological modulation of the HOG signaling pathway in Aspergillus fumigatus

  • Regulation of signal transduction in the high osmolarity glycerol (HOG) signaling pathway in Aspergillus fumigatus
  • Subcellular localization and interactions between proteins of the HOG signaling pathway
  • Mechanisms of action of pyrrolnitrin derivatives and their influence on the HOG signaling pathway
  • Adaptation of A. fumigatus to various environmental stressors (oxidative stress, osmotic stress, cell wall stress)
  • Evolution of stress adaptation in fungi