Caleb Skipper, MD
Nominated From: University of Minnesota
Research Site: Makerere University
Research Area: HIV and Cryptococcal Disease
Primary Mentor: David Boulware
Research Title
HLA Typing in Cryptococcal Disease in Uganda
Disease caused by Cryptococcus neoformans remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality in Uganda despite increasing access to treatment. Little is known about the role HLA class II molecules play in driving a protective or harmful immune response. Early data suggests a difference between HLA types in the general Ugandan population versus those with cryptococcal meningitis. The study aims to use DNA sequencing to describe the HLA alleles present in persons with cryptococcal disease, and determine whether certain alleles are associated with morbidity or mortality.
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