ANALYSIS OF THE IMMUNOPEPTIDOME OF FONSECAEA PEDROSOI FOR DEVELOPMENT OF VACCINE AGAINST CHROMOBLASTOMYCOSIS

• Grant number: 25/00082-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Sandro Rogerio de Almeida
• Grantee: Lucas Ian Pereira Ribeiro
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/11944-9 - Ssporotrichosis and Chromoblastomycosis: development of vaccines based on immunogenic peptides and determination of immunological markers of protection, AP.TEM

Abstract

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM) is a chronic subcutaneous mycosis primarily caused by the fungus Fonsecaea pedrosoi. It is characterized by cutaneous lesions that can progress to severe and debilitating forms. The treatment of this infection is complex and often ineffective, with high recurrence rates. In addition, there is growing concern over antifungal drug resistance. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines against CBM or other fungal infections, highlighting the need for new therapeutic and preventive strategies. In this context, the present study proposes identifying and purifying epitopes presented via MHC-II by dendritic cells and macrophages from mice exposed to Fonsecaea pedrosoi conidia. Furthermore, the study aims to evaluate T-cell proliferation in response to these peptides, the cytokine profile induced, and their protective capacity against CBM, paving the way for developing an effective vaccine. This study seeks to contribute to overcoming the challenges in treating chromoblastomycosis, aligning with global efforts to control Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and the sustainable development goals set by the WHO for 2030. (AU)