Factors Affecting Candida Albicans Mediated Oral Epithelial Inflammation
Uncover how oral epithelial cells contribute to the acute and chronic inflammatory responses during oral fungal infection.
Project description
Oral candidiasis (also known as oral thrush), an opportunistic fungal pathogen, with widespread impact on the oral mucosa, significantly affects populations characterized by immunological vulnerabilities, advanced age, and specific predisposing conditions. The prevalence of Candida albicans (C. albicans) in the oral cavity is around 30–50% of the healthy population, 50–65% of denture wearers, 65–88% of long-term institutionalized individuals, and 90–95% of the immunocompromised population. Oral candidiasis holds significant importance due to its prevalence among immunocompromised individuals, such as people undergoing chemotherapy, or prolonged use of antibiotics and can serve as an early indicator of chronic health issues highlighting the need for targeted and preventive measures in at-risk groups This project sits at the intersection of mucosal immunology, chronic inflammation, and translational oral health research, ideal for students interested in translational microbiology and immunology.
This project explores how oral epithelial cells interacts with oral fungi to cause oral candidiasis commonly known as oral thrush. Using preclinical ( invitro and in vivo mouse models ) of oral Candidiasis and cutting-edge techniques such as RNAScope, fluorescence immunohistochemistry, in vitro epithelial cell culture and antimicrobial screening techniques we aim to identify new therapeutic targets for oral infections. The project will involve hands-on training in microbiology and immunology techniques, data analysis, and potential human sample validation.
Project outcome
Students will gain experience in experimental design and data interpretation and will have the opportunity to present their findings at UB research symposia. Highly committed students may be included as co-authors on publications arising from their contributions.
Learning outcomes
Projects will provide research experience in microbiology/immunology related to oral infections.
Project details
| Length of commitment | Longer than a semester; 6-9 months |
| Start time | Anytime |
| In-person, remote, or hybrid? | In-Person |
| Level of collaboration | Small group project (2-3 students) |
| Benefits | Research experience |
| Who is eligible | All undergraduate students |
Project mentor
Rohitashw Kumar
Assistant Professor
Oral Biology
Phone: (716) 829-2520
Email: rohitash@buffalo.edu
Start the project
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Preparation activities
The specific preparation activities for this project will be customized through discussions between you and your project mentor. Please be sure to ask them for the instructions to complete the required preparation activities.
Keywords
oral biology, microbiology, infections, immunology, oral health, medicine