Researchers at the University of Szeged have secured funding through the HU-rizont program to develop innovative mRNA-based vaccines and therapies aimed at combating dangerous fungal infections of the respiratory system.The international project is led by microbiologist Tamás Papp and involves collaboration with University of Pennsylvania and the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Hans‑Knöll Institute). The research focuses on developing preventive and therapeutic solutions against filamentous fungi that infect the lungs and airways.Two major fungal threats are being studied: Aspergillus fumigatus, which causes aspergillosis, and fungi from the Mucorales group responsible for mucormycosis—both of which can lead to severe or even fatal infections, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. Current treatments are limited because many of these fungi show resistance to existing antifungal drugs, and no preventive vaccine currently exists.The research teams include groups led by Tamás Papp and Attila Gácser at the university’s Biological Institute. Their earlier studies identified surface proteins on fungal filaments that may serve as targets for vaccines or therapeutic molecules.Using mRNA technology, similar to approaches developed by Nobel laureate Katalin Karikó, the project aims to deliver molecules that activate the immune system or directly attack fungal cells. The treatment is designed to act specifically in the lungs and respiratory tract, where fungal spores first enter the body.Experimental vaccine production will be carried out by the research team of Norbert Pardi, while immunological testing in animal models will involve the group led by Ilse Jacobsen.If successful, the project could significantly improve current antifungal therapies and potentially introduce the first preventive vaccine against some of the most dangerous fungal infections affecting humans.
Source:University of Szeged
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