Eric Dang

The Dang lab studies the molecular and cellular interactions between fungi and their hosts. Mammalian barrier tissues (gut, skin, lungs) are constantly stimulated by microbes that play important roles in shaping host immunity and physiology. While fungi are important components of our commensal flora, fungal dysbiosis can lead to chronic allergic disorders such as asthma. Additionally, fungal pathogens cause a high human disease burden, leading to 10 million infections and up to 2 million deaths per year globally. These infections are difficult to treat, due to a lack of effective drugs and the increased emergence of drug-resistant pathogens. We lack a clear understanding of how these eukaryotic microorganisms engage with mammalian hosts to control physiological versus pathological outcomes.

Our laboratory operates at the intersection of microbiology and immunology to understand the factors that dictate outcomes upon fungal exposure to barrier tissues. We take an interdisciplinary approach leveraging fungal/mouse genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, CRISPR, cellular immunology, and imaging approaches to address this topic. Contact Dr. Dang at evdang@mgh.harvard.edu about opportunities and check-out the lab website (https://dang-lab.mgh.harvard.edu/) for information.