Exploring genetic factors in drug resistance of Candida auris
Official title: Genetic approaches to probe virulence and drug resistance in Candida auris
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10991722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how the fungus Candida auris becomes resistant to antifungal treatments, with the goal of finding new ways to help patients who are dealing with infections caused by this tough fungus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | November 24, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,279 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178931-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have been diagnosed with Candida auris infections or are at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections caused by other species that are not Candida auris may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic basis of drug resistance in the fungus Candida auris, which has become a significant health threat due to its ability to resist multiple antifungal treatments. The researchers will create a library of genetic mutants using a bacterium to introduce changes in the Candida auris genome, allowing them to identify specific genes that contribute to its virulence and resistance. By sequencing these mutants, the team aims to uncover new insights that could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from infections caused by this pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antifungal therapies for patients infected with Candida auris.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic approaches to understand drug resistance in other fungal pathogens, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lorenz, Michael C — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lorenz, Michael C
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.