Summary
The Kozel laboratory does translational research aimed at better diagnostics for fungal infection. Past studies developed the technology that is central to a diagnostic test for meningitis caused by the yeast Cryptococcus neoformans. This test is now recommended by the WHO for all newly diagnosed AIDS patients. Current studies focus on diagnosis of opportunistic fungal infections in highly immunosuppressed individuals such as transplant patients and patients receiving chemotherapy for cancer. The diagnostic assay platform is the lateral flow immunoassay (LFA), the same platform that is used in the home pregnancy test or the COVID-19 antigen test. LFA is rapid (minutes to result), inexpensive, and can be performed by personnel with minimal training. As a consequence, these assays are ideally suited for use in resource-limited settings.
Education
- B.A., Microbiology, University of Iowa
- M.S. Microbiology, University of Iowa
- Ph.D. Microbiology, University of Iowa