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Judith Whittum-Hudson

313-577-5501
judith_whittum_hudson@wayne.edu

Website

Area of Interest

Vaccine construction to immunize against Chlamydiae by delivery to induce Th1 and Th2 (and perhaps CTL) immune responses. Induce immune responses to protect mucosal tissues against chlamydial infectious challenge, and to prevent dissemination to distant sites. Use of novel adjuvants and/or cytokines in vaccine constructs. Currently using a purified mouse monoclonal antibody – with hopes of deriving DNA and/or peptides to substitute for the antibody. Ability to track nano constructs for studies of mechanisms in mucosal immunity. Currently using poly(lactide) microspheres to encapsulate purified antibody.

Use of nanoparticles to deliver antibiotics and target inflamed/Chlamydia-infected cells in vivo and in vitro. Use of targeted nanoparticles as an in vivo imaging tool to follow (altered) inflammation with treatment or vaccination.

Use of nanoparticles to deliver materials to infected cells which might overcome persistant chlamydial infection and/or fully acute.