SUMMARY
The main research interests of Patricio Escalante, M.D., M.S., are tuberculosis (TB) and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infections. He also collaborates on other projects, such as sleep-related breathing disorders clinical research.
Focus areas
- TB immunodiagnostics and translational research.
- NTM lung infections translational research.
Significance to patient care
TB affects large numbers of minorities in the U.S. and underserved populations around the world. Dr. Escalante's research team is studying novel diagnostic methods to accurately detect and predict the trajectory of the latent form of TB. This is the most common form of TB infection and the most challenging to diagnose and predict its disease outcome.
NTM lung diseases are emergent infections that also affect many people in the U.S. and around the world. Mycobacterium avium complex lung disease is the most common NTM lung infection. It particularly affects postmenopausal women and remains very challenging to treat. Dr. Escalante's research team is studying biological markers of disease progression and the effect of estrogen and hormonal changes during menopause on host immune response against Mycobacterium avium complex infection.
The work of Dr. Escalante's research team is innovative because it could find specific biological markers of progression and protection in latent TB infection and NTM lung infections with the latest laboratory methods. This research is significant because it is expected to advance the understanding of disease protection and progression in mycobacterial infections. It also will translate into better diagnostic tests and predictors to optimize individualized treatments for patients and change practice. Ultimately, these tests and predictors will better control TB and NTM infections in the community, improving minority health, women's health and global health.
Professional highlights
- Director, Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, 2024-present.
- Standing member, Etiology, Diagnostic, Intervention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases study section, Center for Scientific Review-National Institutes of Health, 2022-present.
- Member, Mayo Clinic Center for Tuberculosis, 2013-present.
- Member, Olmsted County Tuberculosis Clinic, 2008-present.
- Member, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2019-2021.
- American College of Chest Physicians:
- Member, Professional Standards Committee, 2015-2020.
- Member, Guidelines Oversight Committee (formerly the Health and Science Policy Committee), 2008-2013.
- Young Investigator Award, 1998, 2002.
- Outstanding Presentation for Clinical Research Award, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, 1997.