How COVID-19 affects the body's ability to fight fungal infections
The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Immune Dysregulation on Antifungal Immunity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-10899560
This study is looking at how serious COVID-19 can sometimes lead to fungal infections by exploring how the body's immune response might help the fungi grow while making it harder for the body to fight them off, and it’s aimed at helping patients who have had severe COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10899560 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how severe COVID-19 infections can lead to secondary fungal infections, particularly focusing on the immune responses that may inadvertently promote these infections. The study will analyze the mechanisms by which the immune system's reaction to the SARS-CoV-2 virus can result in increased availability of nutrients that support mold growth, while simultaneously impairing the body's ability to recruit immune cells that fight these infections. By examining lung tissues and biological samples from patients, the research aims to uncover the relationship between COVID-19 and fungal infections, potentially leading to better treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced severe COVID-19 infections and are at risk for secondary fungal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had COVID-19 or those with mild cases that do not progress to severe illness may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of fungal infections in patients recovering from COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on COVID-19, this specific investigation into the immune dysregulation leading to fungal infections is novel and has not been previously explored.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEAL, SIXTO MANUEL — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: LEAL, SIXTO MANUEL
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.