OVERVIEW

Overview: This laboratory is devoted to research on filarial nematode parasites that cause important diseases in animals and humans (lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis), mainly in the tropics.

We are currently focused on research to support the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis through applied field research, translational research to develop improved diagnostic tests and treatments, and basic research on the biology of filarial nematodes.

Diagnosis and filariasis elimination programs: We have developed tests based on detection of filarial antigens in human blood, detection of antibodies to recombinant filarial antigens, and detection of filarial DNA in blood or mosquitoes. We have worked with industry partners to make these tests practical for public health use, and more work is needed in this area. We are working to simplify DNA detection tests for filariasis so that they can be more widely applied in endemic countries. Field studies in Egypt and Papua New Guinea have demonstrated the value of these tests for monitoring changes in filariasis prevalence and transmission after mass treatment. We are currently involved in large field studies to document the status of filariasis in Egypt following 5 rounds of MDA and to test endpoints for filariasis elimination programs. http://mednews.wustl.edu/news/page/normal/6833.html, http://outlook.wustl.edu/winter2006/filariasis.htm

Filarial biology: The filarial parasite Brugia malayi was the first parasitic nematode to have full genomic sequencing , and a large number of EST's have been generated from different stages of this parasite. Our laboratory has been an active participant in the Filarial Genome Project . We have conducted pioneering research in gene expression analysis for nematode parasites in close collaboration with the Microarray Core and Nematode Genomics Group in the Washington University Genome Sequencing Center. This work uses techniques such as microarray analysis, qRT-PCR, and in situ hybridization. The goal of these gene expression studies is to improve understanding of the biology of filarial parasites through studies of stage and gender-specific gene expression. This work may identify new therapeutic targets and improve understanding of existing anthemintic drugs. We are also using a variety of techniques to study the interesting mutualistic relationship between filarial worms and endosymbiotic bacteria (Wolbachia). We produce live parasites for this work in specialized facilities for maintenance of the Brugia malayi life cycle in mosquitoes and rodents.

Team approach: Filariasis is a challenging research field. We attribute our success to a number of special strengths. First among these is our focus and long term commitment to this work. This multidisciplinary work would not be possible without a first rate team of scientists and technicians with diverse backgrounds and expertise. We also benefit greatly from the rich scientific environment and research resources available at Washington University School of Medicine. We have also had the privilege of participating in long term collaborations with outstanding research groups in disease-endemic countries. Our involvement in field research helps us by keeping us in touch with the real world importance of filariasis and onchocerciasis and providing us with "ground zero" views of research priorities.