A Vaccine for Cryptococcus Infection in People with AIDS
Preclinical studies of a Cryptococcus vaccine for AIDS patients
This project is developing a new vaccine to protect people living with HIV from a serious fungal infection called cryptococcosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010862 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a vaccine using a specially modified strain of Cryptococcus, the fungus that causes cryptococcosis. Early tests in mice showed that this vaccine can provide strong, long-lasting protection against the infection, even in those with weakened immune systems. The current work aims to understand exactly how this vaccine works to trigger the body's defenses, which is a crucial step before it can be tested in people. The ultimate goal is to offer a new way to protect individuals living with HIV who are vulnerable to this life-threatening infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is ultimately aimed at individuals living with HIV who are at high risk for cryptococcosis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or are not at risk for cryptococcosis would not directly benefit from this specific vaccine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this vaccine could significantly reduce the number of AIDS-related deaths caused by cryptococcosis.
How similar studies have performed: While this specific genetically engineered vaccine is novel, other approaches to developing vaccines against fungal infections have been explored.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lodge, Jennifer K. — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Lodge, Jennifer K.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.