Exploring antifungal compounds from deep fungi to treat a common AIDS-related infection.
Official title: Antiparasitic metabolites from deep subterranean fungi for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis, an AIDS defining disease
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10797019 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new antifungal treatments from deep underground fungi that might help people with AIDS who are dealing with a tough infection called cryptosporidiosis, aiming to find safe and effective options for relief.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI177019-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10797019 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults living with AIDS who are experiencing cryptosporidiosis or are at high risk for this infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have AIDS or who are not infected with Cryptosporidium may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of antifungal compounds derived from deep subterranean fungi to treat cryptosporidiosis, a serious infection often seen in individuals with AIDS. The researchers have identified a series of compounds that show promise in laboratory tests for their ability to combat the Cryptosporidium parasite without harming human cells. The study will involve detailed testing of these compounds to assess their effectiveness and safety, with the goal of developing a new treatment option for patients suffering from this infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, effective treatment for cryptosporidiosis, significantly improving health outcomes for patients with AIDS.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of utilizing natural compounds from fungi is promising, this specific application for treating cryptosporidiosis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Salomon, Christine E — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Salomon, Christine E
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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.