Michael Cappello, MD

We conduct laboratory and field based investigations aimed at characterizing the epidemiology and molecular pathogenesis of parasitic diseases, specifically hookworm and malaria. We also study the pathogenesis of parasite coinfection and the role of host nutritional status in mediating susceptibility to disease. Our group utilizes molecular methods to identify parasite virulence factors, as well as define the genetic basis of treatment failure in endemic areas. Using laboratory models, we are developing novel drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for parasitic diseases, with a goal of implementing new technologies for disease control in resource limited settings.

Our field-based research is focused on the epidemiology of hookworm and malaria in West Africa. In collaboration with the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research at the University of Ghana, we have defined the prevalence and intensity of hookworm/malaria in endemic communities, identified host factors that mediate susceptibility to infection, and also demonstrated high rates of deworming treatment failure. This work suggests the potential emergence of anthelminthic resistance, threatening the effectiveness of mass deworming campaigns in Africa. The long-range goal of our work is to improve the health of poor people around the world through laboratory and field based research on endemic infectious diseases.

In 2007 we launched the Yale Partnerships for Global Health, an initiative aimed at building human research capacity through education and training. Through this innovative program, students and post-doctoral fellows from Ghana, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, and Australia have been hosted at Yale for mentored research training in clinical and translational research. The long range goal of the Yale Partnerships is to build a global network of scientists committed to improving health through collaborative research.