Next generation fungal diagnostics

PI(s)/Head responsible for the resource:

Johan Lindh

Host organisation(s):

Uppsala University

Resource description:

This project aims to develop quick and precise diagnostic tools for fungal infections in hospitals, focusing on optimising an 18S rRNA sequencing protocol and creating an in-house MALDI-TOF fungus spectral library, including resistant strains. The current diagnostic methods are slow and limited, but recent advancements, such as nanopore sequencing—achieving a potential world record—highlight the potential for faster pathogen identification. The project builds on previous successes in high-throughput bacterial and viral genomics, with a large collection of clinical fungus isolates to validate and expand diagnostic capabilities. Conducted over two years in three phases, the project will finalise methods, expand spectral databases, and implement workflows in clinical routines, involving hospital and research collaborations. The initiative addresses critical needs for improved fungal diagnostics, which will enhance patient care, support outbreak response, and contribute to broader infectious disease management and pandemic preparedness.

Contact information:

Johan Lindh
Medical Sciences, Uppsala University
Email: Johan.lindh@icm.uu.se