The laboratory is also investigating other aspects of the mosquito-parasite interaction through an analysis of specific components of the mosquito gut that determine the insect's susceptibility to infection. Chitinase enzymes have also been implicated in embryogenesis in other filarial species. A second project in our laboratory seeks to identify activities required for embryogenesis to occur in the filarial parasites that cause dog heartworm and human river blindness. In the latter infection, all pathology results from production of first-stage larvae, so therapies that target embryogenesis could prevent disease, even during ongoing infection. Our research is combining molecular, biochemical, and immunochemical approaches to study basic parasite biology with the goal of uncovering unique targets for intervention and disease control.
Discrete transcripts encode multiple chitinase isoforms in Brugian microfilariae.
Structure and function of a family of chitinase isozymes from Brugian microfilariae. Transmission-blocking antibodies recognize microfilarial chitinase in Brugian lymphatic filariasis.