Join the Project!
We are currently recruiting keen volunteers and amateur scientists for our citizen science phase! Read to find out more!
Countries
Laboratories
Samples
We are currently looking for volunteers and citizen scientists to conduct some simple air sampling in their local areas as part of Phase 1 of the Latin American Aspergillus fumigatus Azole-Resistance Survey (LatAsp)! The sampling is easy and safe, and will help expand our knowledge of the current state of azole-resistance in A. fumigatus in Latin America.
To join this exciting project, go to our Participate page where you can find out more about this project and complete the questionnaire to submit an expression of interest to our investigators!
A. fumigatus is a filamentous fungi that occurs globally, being found naturally in soil, water, plants, food and air. It is capable of causing disease in humans and is the agent for over 70% of Aspergillus related invasive infections in the world.
With the widespread use of antimicrobials, the identification of antifungal resistant fungi, fungi that are no longer killed or negatively affected by specific antifungals, are becoming increasingly common in the environment and in human infection. The azole class of antifungals are among the most used in not just clinical applications, but also in agricultural fungicides. Therefore, it is important to identify how widespread azole-resistance in A. fumigatus is in order to develop management plans for this pathogen and the treatment of infected patients.
In order to gain a robust idea of how widespread azole resistance in A. fumigatus is in Latin America, we are recruiting the help of the public and amateur scientists to conduct easy and simple air sampling in 12 countries! If you are interested in contributing to an important scientific study, find out more on how to participate below!