Helping immune cells remember and fight Histoplasma fungal infections
Metallothionein-Zinc Axis and Macrophage Memory to Fungi
This project looks at whether boosting a natural 'memory' in frontline immune cells helps people—especially those with AIDS or weakened immune systems—better fight Histoplasma fungal infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247170 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The researchers are studying macrophages, the immune cells that swallow fungi, to see how a form of innate 'memory' called trained immunity makes them better at killing Histoplasma yeast. In the lab they compare mouse and human macrophages and look at changes in zinc levels and zinc-binding proteins called metallothioneins that appear when cells are trained. The work uses molecular, immunologic, and metallomic techniques and includes experiments on human-derived cells or samples. Results could guide ways to boost these natural defenses for people at higher risk of severe fungal infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people at risk for histoplasmosis—such as those with AIDS or other weakened immune systems—who are willing to provide blood or other samples for lab studies.
Not a fit: People not at risk for Histoplasma infection or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to get direct benefit from this early laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to strengthen innate immune defenses against histoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other laboratory studies of trained immunity have shown promise against infections, but applying the metallothionein–zinc mechanism specifically to Histoplasma is novel and not yet tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deepe, George S. — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Deepe, George S.
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.