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, accumulating evidence of the role of infection in neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, and exploitation of infectious microbes as bioterrorism agents also emphasize the need for infectious disease research.
Infectious disease research focuses on understanding and combating the spread of various diseases caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Researchers in this field investigate transmission and pathogenesis of infectious agents, and strategies for prevention and treatment. Scientists combine the fields of epidemiology, microbiology, immunology and molecular biology to gain insights into the complex interactions between pathogens and humans, identify potential targets for therapeutics and vaccines, and develop diagnostic tools for early detection.
Infectious disease researchers also collaborate with healthcare professionals, public health agencies and policymakers to translate their findings into policies. Their work plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of infectious diseases within communities and globally. By understanding the dynamics of transmission, identifying effective interventions and advancing scientific knowledge, infectious disease research helps protect populations and improve overall healthcare outcomes.
PCOM researchers study mechanisms of how infectious agents enter cells and take over their machinery. They also develop strategies to overcome vaccine hesitancy and prevent, treat and cure infectious diseases, including COVID-19, Alzheimer's disease and failure of bone implants.
Pathology and immunology expert Valerie Cadet, PhD, explains what coronavirus is, how it spreads, preventive measures and more.
PCOM DO student Jillianne Santos' abstract of a unique medical case earned her honors as winner of the Delaware Abstract Competition by the ACP.
PCOM Georgia faculty and student researchers are currently working on novel drug development for treating COVID-19.
PCOM aims to develop innovative approaches to promoting health through basic, translational, clinical, behavioral, education and community research projects.
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