How fat cells and inflammation affect skin infections caused by Leishmania
Official title: Adipocytes and inflammation in the cutaneous leishmaniasis outcome
Funded at Federal University of Bahia · NIH-10897397 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being overweight might affect the healing of a skin infection called cutaneous leishmaniasis, by checking how fat cells and inflammation work together, and it aims to find ways to help people with this condition heal better and faster.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Federal University of Bahia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salvador, Brazil) |
| Project start | August 20, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $120,226 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI183392-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897397 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis, especially those who are obese.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis who are not obese may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between fat cells, inflammation, and the severity of cutaneous leishmaniasis, a skin infection caused by Leishmania braziliensis. It focuses on understanding how obesity influences the inflammatory response in patients, particularly looking at the role of specific proteins and lipids in healing. By analyzing the inflammatory cells in the fat tissue of obese patients, the study aims to uncover why these individuals experience more severe symptoms and longer healing times. The researchers will also explore whether certain lipids can help shift immune cells towards a healing state, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis, particularly those who are obese.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding the role of inflammation and obesity can impact treatment outcomes in various diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Federal University of Bahia
Salvador, Brazil Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carvalho, Lucas P — Federal University of Bahia
- Study coordinator: Carvalho, Lucas P
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.