We want to understand how parasitic nematodes infect their host at a molecular and genetic level. Our research investigates the protein-coding genes and the small RNAs that have a role in nematode parasitism. We use the parasitic nematode Strongyloides ratti, a gastrointestinal of rodents, as a model to understand nematode parasitism.
We have also started working with freeliving Caenorhabditis nematodes including C. inopinata, a recently discovered sibling species of C. elegans, to better understand the diversity of small RNA pathways in nematodes.
To learn more about our research, visit our website: https://www.vickyhuntlab.org/