Laboratory of Pathoantigens

The Patho-antigens Laboratory develops diagnostic methods for American tegumentary leishmaniasis (Uta) through the detection of specific nucleic acids or antigens. In both cases, the devices developed can be applied in primary care centers in rural Andean or jungle areas where they are endemic. Immunochromatographic methods or the use of SD antibodies are the main activities. In terms of basic research, the intracellular amastigote stage has unique characteristics that protect it from the host's defense responses. They study the parasite's genotype, transcriptome, and proteome to associate it with the clinical manifestations of tegumentary leishmaniasis, including the phenomenon of resistance to treatment. They use a mouse ear skin infection model with Leishmania spp. that simulates the skin lesions observed in humans.