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| Name |
de Souza, Wanderley |
| Location
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Rio de Janeiro Federal University |
| Primary Field
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Animal, Nutritional and Applied Microbial Sciences |
| Secondary Field
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Microbial Biology |
 Election Citation
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de Souza studies the organization of intracellular pathogenic protozoa and how they invade and survive in host cells. |
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Research Interests
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Wanderley de Souza is interested in the study of several pathogenic protozoa, with emphasis on their structural organization, working on areas that include (a) analysis of the ultrastructure using modern microscopy techniques, including 3-D reconstruction.; (b) Isolation and characterization of protozoa structures; (c) identification and characterization of the steps of parasite-host cell interaction; (4) experimental chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo against pathogenic protozoa. Important achievements include the study of sub-pellicular microtubules, paraflagellar rod, acidocalcisomes, and the description of the highly polarized endocytosis that takes place in Trypanosoma cruzi, leading to the formation of an organelle designated as reservosome. De Souza also identified several endocytic processes (classical phagocytosis, clathrin-mediated, and macropinocytosis) used by the parasites to penetrate cells. He also identified new drug targets in parasitic protozoa, a project involving strong collaborations with colleagues from other countries. At present, he is involved in establishing a modern scientific infrastructure in the Amazon region to allow more in-depth studies related to the biodiversity of eukaryotic microorganisms and better understand the influence of deforestation on the fate of infectious diseases transmitted by insects. De Souza regularly writes articles published in the most important newspapers in Brazil addressing new relevant discoveries and science policy issues making criticisms and suggestions. He also dedicates part of his time to strengthening research centers in different states of the country and organizing new scientific institutions. |
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