How fat cells and inflammation affect skin infections caused by Leishmania

Adipocytes and inflammation in the cutaneous leishmaniasis outcome

NIH-funded research Federal University of Bahia · NIH-10897397

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFederal University of Bahia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salvador, Brazil)
Project IDNIH-10897397 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis, especially those who are obese.

Not a fit: Patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis who are not obese may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.

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 performed: 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

Salvador, Brazil

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.