Characterization of pan-fungal antibodies against Aspergillus
Official title: Characterization of pan-fungal monoclonal antibodies targeting Aspergillus
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11437145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small NIH-funded project will study monoclonal antibodies that target Aspergillus fungi to explore new ways to prevent or treat invasive aspergillosis in people with weak immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $228,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI202073-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11437145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases who are at risk for invasive aspergillosis could benefit from future applications of this research.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals without risk factors for fungal infections are unlikely to benefit from this early-stage research.
What this research studies
This project focuses on developing and characterizing monoclonal antibodies that can recognize a broad range of Aspergillus fungi, with the goal of enhancing protection or treatment for invasive aspergillosis. Researchers will use lab studies to understand how these antibodies bind to fungal targets and how they might work alongside existing antifungal drugs. The findings could inform future therapies that reduce illness, hospital stays, and treatment side effects for patients with high-risk lung or immune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to antibody-based options that prevent or lessen severe Aspergillus infections in vulnerable patients.
How similar studies have gone: There is prior evidence that antifungal antibodies can protect against Aspergillus in preclinical models, supporting further development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rabacal, Whitney Amber Sachi — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Rabacal, Whitney Amber Sachi
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.