Douglas P. Jasmer
Douglas P. Jasmer, PhD
Professor
In my laboratory, we investigate molecular and cellular aspects of
host/parasite interactions and
parasite biology. The parasites that are
currently under investigation include
two nematodes, Trichinella
spiralis and Haemonchus
contortus. Trichinella spiralis infects
mammalian muscle cells during an
early stage in its life cycle. Infected
muscle is induced to undergo genetic
reprogramming and to express a
unique phenotype. Major goals of our
research are to characterize this
phenotype and uncover the mechanisms
of the host and parasite that
regulate this phenotype. Parasite
products that localize to host nuclei
and may chronically interfere with
host gene expression are a specific
focus of our current research.
Haemonchus contortus is an abomasal parasite of small
ruminants. This
parasite has become an important
model to investigate biology of
parasitic nematodes. Our current
research has focused on antigens and
biological properties of the nematode
intestine. Antigens synthesized in
the intestine of H. contortus
have proven to induce remarkable levels of
protection against challenge
infections of this parasite. Some
intestinal antigens that induce this
protection been identified.
Additional antigens with similar
capability will be of interest to
identify. Another goal of this
research is to produce recombinant forms
of these antigens that are competent
to stimulate protective immunity.
In addition, the intestine is recognized as an important target for
anthelmintics. A major aspect of our
research has been to develop
methods, reagents and a comprehensive
gene data bank to support research
on basic biology of the nematode
intestine. Specific topics of research
include mechanisms of secretory
vesicle transport in intestinal cells,
since inhibition of this process was
associated with disintegration of
the worm intestine. Hence, parasite
proteins that mediate vesicle
transport are of interest to
identify.
Publications
