Department of Biology Undergraduate Researchers Publish the Genome Sequence of Important Fungal Pathogen. – Prof David Fitzpatrick
Two undergraduate students, Kayleigh Sines and Matthew Amoo from the Department of Biology in Maynooth University, have co-authored a newly published research paper describing the first clinical isolate of Candida auris identified in Ireland.
The study was undertaken with collaborators in Maynooth University, Trinity College Dublin, and Cork University Hospital. Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant yeast unique for its ability to colonize skin, rapid spread in healthcare settings, and resist multiple classes of conventional disinfectants and antifungal agents. Its ability to cause disease outbreaks associated with high mortality rates has earned it a place in the critical priority group of the WHO fungal priority pathogen list.
The genome of the first Candida auris sample collected in Ireland, reveals that it belongs to clade I, one of five globally recognised genetic lineages of Candida auris. The researchers also identified mutations in genes linked to antifungal resistance.
Remarkably, much of the genome sequence analysis was carried out by Sines and Amoo during their undergraduate studies at Maynooth University. “This publication is a testament to the capability and impact of undergraduate researchers when given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to real-world scientific challenges,” said Prof. David Fitzpatrick, co-senior author and supervisor on the project. “It is also a testament to the quality and strength of our undergraduate students and programmes”.
The work highlights the importance of investing in genomic monitoring to inform public health responses in hospitals and long-term care facilities, particularly as drug-resistant fungal infections such as Candida auris rise globally.
Please find the link here to the publication.