How a fungal pathogen changes its form in response to temperature
Official title: Interplay between the heat shock response and histidine kinase pathways in the thermally dimorphic fungal pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum
Funded at J. Craig Venter Institute, INC. · NIH-10675425 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum changes its form when it enters the human body, which helps it survive and cause illness, and by understanding this process, researchers hope to find new ways to prevent and treat infections for people affected by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | J. Craig Venter Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 14, 2018 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $487,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI137418-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10675425 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of Histoplasma capsulatum infections, particularly those with weakened immune systems or those exposed to environments where the fungus is prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections caused by other pathogens, such as Aspergillus or Candida species, may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum switches from a mold to a yeast form when it enters the human body, which is crucial for its survival and ability to cause disease. The study focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that allow this pathogen to sense body temperature and alter its growth accordingly. By examining specific proteins and genetic pathways involved in this process, researchers aim to uncover potential targets for new treatments. The findings could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by this dangerous fungus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve outcomes for patients with life-threatening fungal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding fungal pathogens' responses to environmental changes, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
J. Craig Venter Institute, INC.
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beyhan, Sinem — J. Craig Venter Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Beyhan, Sinem
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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.