Neeraja Sripada L&S Biological Sciences
Host Responses to Rectal C. trachomatis Infections in Fijian Women
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections with over 131 million new cases occurring globally each year. This is due in part to unchecked transmission because ~50% of males and ~80% of females are asymptomatic and remain untreated. Recently, rectal Ct infections have been shown to be significantly more common than previously thought, especially among women. Little is known about rectal Ct infections in women and the immune responses to it that may drive or prevent infection. My project will therefore aim to elucidate the Ct mechanisms of adaptation to the rectal site in Fijian women, a population which is understudied despite having some of the highest rates of Ct in the world. I will also explore the role that the Ct genomic strain type may play in host immune responses. This study will help us form a greater understanding of host-pathogen interactions in rectal Ct infections and may lead to the discovery of novel targets for vaccine development and treatment strategies.
Message To Sponsor
I would like to thank the Leadership Fund for their generous support of my project this summer. This fellowship has allowed me the opportunity to grow as a researcher and dedicate my summer to investigating a topic I'm fascinated by. I've learned how to evaluate previous studies, problem-solve as issues arise, and present my work to my peers. This experience has cemented my passion for pursuing research and I'm excited to see where this project goes in the future!