Xabier Guruceaga, Ph.D. is a postdoctoral researcher in the College of Pharmacy at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). He earned his undergraduate degree in Biology and Biochemistry from The University of Navarra in Spain, and subsequently pursued his MSc degree in Microbiology and Human Health at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU). It was during this time that his fascination with fungi took root, motivating him to further his career by completing his PhD in the same institution.
His Ph.D. research focused on conducting transcriptomic studies of Aspergillus fumigatus, utilizing a comprehensive whole genome microarray to identify genes actively involved in the infection process caused by this fungus. His dedication and passion for fungal research were evident when he received recognition from the EMBO organization, affording him the opportunity to travel to the USA to acquire expertise in applying CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genetic manipulations in fungi.
Throughout his research career, he has made significant discoveries regarding the role of fumagillin during in vivo infections induced by A. fumigatus, shedding light on the vital role this toxin plays in the pathobiology of this mold. Presently, his research interests are focused on exploring the connection between A. fumigatus septation and its response to stress induced by echinocandins.
As a filamentous fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus possesses a sophisticated secondary metabolism capable of generating various mycotoxins. Our research revealed the potential active role of fumagillin in immunosuppressed murine infections, elucidating its impact on macrophages and epithelial cells.
The study investigates Aspergillus fumigatus SIN effectors, Bud4 and Rho4, finding their essential roles in echinocandin resistance and virulence. Deletion led to aseptate hyphae, reduced conidiation, and they were avirulent in mice. Overexpression partially restored septation. The mutants showed fungicidal interactions with echinocandins and hypersensitivity to cell wall stressors.