Current Projects:
- Leptospirosis in Pregnancy: Investigating the effects of leptospirosis on pregnancy outcomes, this project seeks to understand the burden of leptospirosis in pregnancy
- Leptospira Antibodies and Titers Over Time: This longitudinal study monitors changes in Leptospira antibodies and titers in patients over time, providing insights into immune response and duration of immunity.
- Leptospirosis TLR (Toll-Like Receptor) Response: Examining the role of Toll-Like Receptors in the immune response to Leptospira infection, which could lead to new therapeutic targets.
- Leptospirosis Cytokine Response: Focused on understanding the cytokine response in leptospirosis patients, this project aims to clarify the pathways of inflammation and potential interventions.
- Pulmonary Hemorrhage and Leptospirosis: Investigating the causes and mechanisms behind pulmonary hemorrhage in leptospirosis, which is a severe but poorly understood complication of the disease.
- Leptospirosis in Jaffna: A focused study on the incidence and impact of leptospirosis in the Jaffna region, aiming to identify local risk factors and transmission dynamics.
Training Programs
Expertise in Leptospirosis Training: At the Leptospirosis Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, we are committed to sharing our expertise and advancing the field through specialized training programs. Our hands-on training sessions are designed to equip participants with the skills needed to excel in research and diagnostics related to leptospirosis.
Training Offered:
- Leptospira Culture and Isolation: Techniques for culturing and isolating Leptospira from various samples.
- Maintenance of Cultures: Best practices for the long-term maintenance of Leptospira cultures.
- Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT): Detailed training on performing and interpreting MAT.
- Dark Field Microscopy: Skills for using dark field microscopy to detect and study Leptospira.
- Quantitative PCR (qPCR): Comprehensive training on setting up and interpreting qPCR for leptospirosis.
- Sample Collection: Best practices for collecting samples for accurate leptospirosis diagnosis.
- Epidemiological Study Design: Training in designing and implementing robust epidemiological studies.
- Execution of Hospital and Field Studies: Practical training on conducting studies in both hospital settings and in the field.
- Soil Sample Collection and Analysis: Techniques for collecting and analyzing soil samples for the presence of Leptospira.
Global Reach: Our training programs have benefited a wide range of participants, from undergraduates and postgraduate students from numerous Sri Lankan universities to health ministry staff and international research scholars from countries including India, Denmark, Israel, and the USA. This diverse participation underscores our role as a global center of excellence in l
