S. Earl Kang, Jr.

S. Earl Kang, Jr.

Nov 30, 2016

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Houdini couldn't escape Aspergillosis

Calgary Zoo's favorite 14 year old penguin, Houdini died of aspergillosis.

While aspergillosis is considered a human disease, it is a major problem for birds and especially cute, adorable penguins. A six year study of rehabilitated Magellanic penguins revealed that 20% die of aspergillosis. If you would like to read more: Silva Filho RP et al (2015) Incidence density, proportionate mortality, and risk factors of aspergillosis in Magellanic penguins in a rehabilitation center from Brazil. J Zoo Wildl Med. 46:667-74

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About This Project

Tiny fungal spores and yeast forms are found in the soil, air, and water. Infection takes hold when spores break dormancy and grow in or on us. Fungi kill more than 1.5 million people every year. The few existing antifungal drugs are becoming ineffective because of a dramatic increase in resistance. Deep sequencing of the spore transcriptome will help us understand the mechanisms regulating spore dormancy and identify new drug targets.

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