Drexel University College of Medicine

Microbiology and Immunology Graduate Program

B.S., Biology, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH); Lima, Peru

Email: renzo.francisco.peraleslinares@drexel.edu

First Year Student

 Advisor: Dr. Sonia Navas-Martin

Thesis Research Summary:

Background and interests: I completed my undergraduate studies at UPCH and started my research training at the Institute of Tropical Medicine "Alexander von Humboldt" (IMTAvH). During the last four years I have been able to pursue broad-based training in biochemical, molecular and immunological approaches to leishmaniasis. My work and research interests have been primarily focused in two areas: drug development based on natural compounds and investigating the host-parasite relationship through analysis of the immunopathogenicity of New World Leishmania species in murine models.  Although my research has been focused on leishmaniasis, it has provided me with a broad insight into mechanisms of host-parasite interaction conserved between many other diseases that involve cell-mediated immunity. These include those caused by intracellular pathogens such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV. In due course, I hope to continue investigation into novel diagnostic and therapeutic measures for parasitic infections.