Therapeutic Platforms for Paracoccidioidomycosis

• Grant number: 24/23402-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Andrei Moroz
• Grantee: Kelvin Sousa dos Santos
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCFAR). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/03240-4 - Study of the therapeutic potential of peptides generated by Galleria mellonella using the epitope masking technique, AP.R

Abstract

The present postdoctoral project aims to integrate and align the research expertise acquired by the candidate with the continuation of results obtained thus far, incorporating the production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and their humanization abroad. Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an underreported disease that affects both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Current treatments, which rely on antifungal agents, are highly toxic. Therefore, the objectives of the project are: i) production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting beta1,3 and beta1,6 for the diagnosis (murine) and treatment (humanized) of PCM; ii) investigation of gloverin as a treatment for PCM; and iii) development of an in vitro skin model to study the treatment of cutaneous PCM using humanized antibodies and gloverin.The project will initially follow the classical mAb production technology described in 1975 by Köhler & Milstein, under the supervision of Dr. Andrei Moroz. The best clones will be selected and tested against sera from PCM-positive patients (diagnosis). After preliminary toxicity assays, the best clones will be sent for humanization by the candidate, who will undertake a research internship under the supervision of Dr. Cory Brooks (University of California, Fresno, USA - collaboration letter attached). Concurrently with the initial development of mAbs, the candidate will standardize the in vitro skin model. Finally, assays will be conducted using humanized mAbs and gloverin (a peptide produced during the candidate's doctoral studies) for disease treatment.The transfer of humanization technology will be highly significant for the advancement of our research line.