Study of the immunological modulation of PM-MDSCs in experimental chromoblastomycosis

• Grant number: 25/06672-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Biology and Physiology of Microorganisms
• Principal Investigator: Sandro Rogerio de Almeida
• Grantee: Ana Vitória Strilicherk
• 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 is the second most prevalent implantation mycosis in the world. This disease is caused by melanized fungi (dark pigmentation), mainly Fonsecaea pedrosoi. In addition, it is a chronic disease that affects, in its vast majority, low-income individuals. Its treatment is long, with major side effects and high cost, since there are few antifungals available on the market capable of controlling and eliminating the fungus that causes this disease, which leads a large number of patients to interrupt treatment, leading to a high rate of disease recurrence. Studies that aim to understand the pathogen-host relationship in chromoblastomycosis are of utmost importance. Therefore, this project aims to evaluate the role of PM-MDSCs cells in modulating the immune response in chromoblastomycosis and thus we hope to advance knowledge about the immunomodulation of this disease of importance to public health in our country. (AU)