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James Andrew Alspaugh II

Professor of Medicine
Medicine, Infectious Diseases
Duke Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710
DUMC Box 102359, 303 Sands Building, Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710

Overview


The focus of my research is to understand the ways in which microorganisms sense and respond to changes in their environment. As microbial pathogens enter the infected host, dramatic genetic and phenotypic events occur that allow these organisms to survive in this harsh environment. We study the model fungal organism Cryptococcus neoformans to define signal transduction pathways associated with systemic fungal diseases. This pathogenic fungus causes lethal infections of the central nervous system in patients with AIDS and other immunological disorders. In addition to being an important pathogen, C. neoformans displays well-characterized and inducible virulence determinants. It is an outstanding system for dissecting the signaling pathways associated with pathogenicity.

The main techniques used in the lab are those of molecular genetics. We are able to readily mutate C. neoformans genes by homologous recombination. Mutant strains with disruptions in targeted genes are then evaluated in vitro for various phenotypes including altered expression of polysaccharide capsule and melanin. The effects of gene disruption on pathogenicity are also evaluated in animal models of cryptococcal disease. Using these techniques, we have identified a novel G-alpha protein/cAMP-dependent signaling pathway associated with mating and pathogenicity.

This research is complemented by the other investigators in the Duke University Mycology Research Unit. The members of this research community are pursuing studies in fungal pathogenesis, identifying novel antifungal drug targets, and studying the ecology of several medically important fungi.

Keywords: Microbial Pathogenesis
Cryptococcus neoformans
Signal transduction
Fungal mating
G proteins

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Medicine · 2013 - Present Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Medicine
Professor in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology · 2014 - Present Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Basic Science Departments
Professor of Cell Biology · 2022 - Present Cell Biology, Basic Science Departments

Education, Training & Certifications


Duke University · 1991 M.D.