In light of the recent global COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of infectious agents and newly emerging microbes has become apparent. However, infectious diseases resulting from viruses, parasites, fungi and bacteria have long been a major cause of human morbidity and mortality.
In addition to high mortality rates and lasting symptoms from COVID-19, infections with viruses such as influenza claim tens of thousands of lives each year in the United States alone. According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic resistant bacteria are one of the biggest threats to global health. Emergence of new infectious diseases and exploitation of infectious microbes as bioterrorism agents also emphasizes the need for research in the area of infectious diseases.
Infectious disease research focuses on understanding and combating the spread various diseases caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Researchers in this field investigate the transmission properties, pathogenesis, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases to improve public health outcomes. Scientists combine the fields of epidemiology, microbiology, immunology and molecular biology to gain insights into the complex interactions between pathogens and humans.
Researchers collect and analyze data to identify sources of outbreaks, determine the modes and patterns of transmissions and develop strategies to prevent further spread. In addition, they investigate immune responses to discover potential targets for therapeutics and vaccines. Research often involves laboratory experiments, animal models, clinical trials and population studies.
Furthermore, infectious disease researchers collaborate with healthcare professionals, public health agencies and policymakers to translate their findings into policies. They contribute to the development of diagnostic tests and vaccination strategies. Their work plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of infectious diseases on communities. By understanding the dynamics of transmission, identifying effective interventions and advancing scientific knowledge, infectious disease research helps protect populations and improve overall healthcare outcomes.
The goal of PCOM researchers is to understand mechanisms infectious agents employ to infect humans, identify new strategies to prevent, treat and cure infectious diseases, and overcome vaccine hesitancy to control the spread of infectious diseases. Our investigators also study the contributions of infectious agents to Alzheimer’s disease and failure of implanted devices.
Pathology and immunology expert Valerie Cadet, PhD, explains what coronavirus is, how it spreads, preventive measures and more.
PCOM aims to develop innovative approaches to promoting health through basic, translational, clinical, behavioral, education and community research projects.
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