Fabian Diaz
Assistant Professor
Vet Microbiology & Preventive Medicine
fediaz1@iastate.edu
515-294-8352
Patterson
ISU Directory Link
Education & Certifications
DVM, Universidad de Chile (2014)
PhD, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile (2021)
Teaching
VMPM 7380 - Veterinary Immunology
Research Focus & Interests
The Diaz Lab aims to understand the immune responses occurring at mucosal surfaces in response to pathogen invasion, with a focus on respiratory viruses and bacteria that are prevalent in ruminant and human populations. Our goal is to develop strategies to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses to pathogens in order to increase disease resistance and resilience. A major approach is the development of immunomodulators that act on innate immune cells in the respiratory mucosa. Additionally, we work on the design, development, and testing of vaccines, including modified-live and nanoparticle-based vaccines.
We conduct exploratory studies, using classic cellular immunology techniques as well as molecular and metabolic analyses of immune cells, to develop and screen immunomodulators and vaccines. Then, under a translational framework, we employ animal models to evaluate their safety and efficacy in conditions that represent those often seen in the field.
Memberships
American Association of Immunologists
American Association of Veterinary Immunologists
Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases