Genetic control of host resistance to UTI

Genetic predisposition is essential, not just for rare monogenetic disorders but for common infections such as urinary tract infection (UTI), wherein disease-associated genetic variants primarily control the expression of genes involved in the antibacterial defence. Genotyping and gene expression analysis suggest that APN is an overlooked genetic disorder, characterized by a dysfunctional host response to infection. Contrary to the current dogma favoring hyper-inflammation as the cause of tissue damage, scarring might be associated with an attenuated host response and immuno-suppression.
I will investigate the proteomic correlates to the genetic polymorphisms and gene expression data from these population studies. The aim is to fund parameters to improve diagnosis and to assess the risk for chronic sequels such as renal malfunction, hypertension, spontaneous abortions, dialysis and transplantation.