Project information
Advancing Candida and Emerging Yeast Pathogens Surveillance: Long-Read Genomics for Resistance and Epidemiology (Yeast-LONG)

Invasive yeast infections, particularly those caused by Candida species, are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized and immunocompromised patients. This project aims to advance the surveillance of Candida and emerging yeast pathogens using long-read genomics to study resistance and epidemiology. The increasing prevalence of non-albicans species and multidrug-resistant strains, such as Candida auris, Candida parapsilosis, and Nakaseomyces glabratus, poses a severe challenge to clinical management. By employing whole-genome sequencing and high-throughput molecular approaches, this research will uncover genetic determinants of antifungal resistance and track the spread of resistant clones. The project will establish a robust molecular epidemiology framework for invasive candidiasis, enabling better surveillance, antifungal stewardship, and improved patient outcomes. The integration of up-to-date bioinformatics tools and interactive database will facilitate real-time resistance tracking and clinical decision support, addressing the urgent need for standardized monitoring protocols and enhanced infection control measures.