How Candida albicans infections affect immune responses in the mouth
Candida albicans oral infection shapes innate immunity and recruitment of myeloid-derived suppressor cells
This study looks at how infections from a common fungus called Candida albicans affect the immune system, especially in people with weakened immune systems, by using mice to see how these infections change the way certain immune cells work in the mouth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078202 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how infections caused by the fungus Candida albicans influence the immune system, particularly focusing on the recruitment of specific immune cells known as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). By using mouse models, the study examines the interactions between C. albicans and the immune response in the oral cavity, exploring how these infections can lead to changes in the oral tissue and immune cell behavior. The research aims to understand the balance between fungal tolerance and immune response, which could have implications for treating infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with compromised immune systems who are at risk for oral fungal infections.
Not a fit: Patients with healthy immune systems and no history of oral fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for oral fungal infections, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: While the recruitment of MDSCs in response to fungal infections is a novel finding, similar research has shown that understanding immune responses can lead to breakthroughs in treatment strategies.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edgerton, Mira — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Edgerton, Mira
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.