Coccidioidomycosis
Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection found in the Western hemisphere. When symptoms do develop, they mainly present as pneumonia. A small number of infections progress to disseminated disease. Our company is well-equipped to address your drug and therapy development requirements in Coccidioidomycosis therapy.
Introduction to Coccidioidomycosis
Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley Fever, is a fungal infection caused by the inhalation of spores from Coccidioides species, primarily found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States, including California and Arizona. The incidence of coccidioidomycosis has been rising, with California reporting 9,280 cases in 2023, the highest number on record for the state. The geographic distribution of the disease is expanding due to environmental factors such as climate change, which enhances the conditions for fungal proliferation.
Fig. 1 Epidemiology of Coccidioides infection. (Krogstad, P., et al., 2019)Host-Pathogen Interactions in Coccidioidomycosis
Host-pathogen interactions in coccidioidomycosis involve complex mechanisms where the innate and adaptive immune responses play crucial roles in controlling infections by Coccidioides species. The disease's progression can be influenced by defects in fungal sensing and immune response induction. Research has highlighted the significance of pattern recognition receptors, such as Dectin-1, in recognizing fungal components and initiating immune responses.
Fig. 2 Coccidioides biology. (Krogstad, P., et al., 2019)Diagnosis Development of Coccidioidomycosis
Molecular diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis includes methods such as PCR and real-time PCR, which offer higher sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional techniques. These methods enable quicker diagnosis, reducing the time required for accurate detection of Coccidioides species. Advances in molecular point-of-care testing (POCT) hold promise for improving accessibility and reducing diagnostic delays.
Fig. 3 Timeline of the evolution of clinical laboratory for coccidioidomycosis detection. (Gastelum-Cano, J.M., et al., 2021)Vaccine Development of Coccidioidomycosis
| Type | Vaccine | Background | Mechanism | Development Stage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole cell vaccines (live-attenuated or killed cells) |
Killed spherules | Formalin-killed Coccidioides Immitis strain | Not defined | Phase III |
| Cps1 | Live C.immitis strain deleted of Cps1 | T cell response | Preclinical | |
| Recombinant vaccines | Antigen2 | Proline-rich antigen on cell surface,with CpG adjuvant | T cell response | Preclinical |
Our Services
Our company adopts a collaborative approach, partnering closely with clients to create tailored and innovative therapy strategies for Coccidioidomycosis. We offer comprehensive support throughout the entire development process, ensuring effective and customized solutions.
Platforms of Coccidioidomycosis Therapy Development
Animal Models of Coccidioidomycosis
We have extensive experience in creating and utilizing animal models that faithfully mimic the disease traits and therapeutic reactions of Coccidioidomycosis. These models enable us to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of prospective therapies with precision.
| Non-Genetically Engineering Models | ||
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| We provide an array of models designed to meet specific research requirements for Coccidioidomycosis. These models allow researchers to replicate and study the intricate biological processes associated with the disease. | ||
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| Genetically Engineered Models | ||
| Our expertise in genetic engineering techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9 enables us to create precise and reliable models that replicate the genetic alterations seen in Coccidioidomycosis. | ||
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| Optional Species | Mice, Rats, Non-human primates, Others | |
In addition, we offer a range of comprehensive animal model services that concentrate on specific signaling pathways and molecular targets.
If you are interested in our services, please contact us as soon as possible for more information.
References
- Krogstad, P., et al., "Host-Pathogen Interactions in Coccidioidomycosis: Prognostic Clues and Opportunities for Novel Therapies." Clin Ther, (2019). 41(10): p. 1939-1954 e1931.
- Gastelum-Cano, J.M., et al., "The clinical laboratory evolution in coccidioidomycosis detection: Future perspectives." J Mycol Med, (2021). 31(3): p. 101159.
- Rivera, A., et al., "Harnessing the Immune Response to Fungal Pathogens for Vaccine Development." Annu Rev Microbiol, (2022). 76: p. 703-726.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.