Finding and improving new medicines to fight fungal infections
Discovery and optimization of antifungal acetyl CoA synthetase inhibitors
This research aims to discover and improve new types of drugs that can effectively treat a wide range of fungal infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127441 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many fungal infections are difficult to treat, and new medicines are urgently needed. This project focuses on a specific target in fungi, an enzyme called acetyl CoA synthetase (ACS), which is essential for their survival but not for human cells. Researchers are using advanced screening methods to find new compounds that can block this enzyme. They will also study the structure of these compounds to make them even more effective against different types of fungi, with the goal of developing a new class of antifungal drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but future clinical trials stemming from this work would likely seek individuals with difficult-to-treat or widespread fungal infections.
Not a fit: Patients without fungal infections would not directly benefit from this specific research, as it is focused on developing antifungal treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to powerful new medications that are more effective and safer for treating serious fungal infections in patients.
How similar studies have performed: An initial compound targeting this enzyme showed promising activity, suggesting that this approach holds potential for developing new antifungal drugs.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krysan, Damian J — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Krysan, Damian J
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.