How giant fungal cells affect infections in people with HIV
Impact of Cryptococcus titan cells on pathogenesis
This study is looking at how special giant cells from a fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans affect the immune system in people with advanced HIV/AIDS, with the goal of finding better ways to help treat infections caused by this fungus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of unique giant cells produced by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans during infections, particularly in patients with advanced HIV/AIDS. These titan cells are significantly larger than typical fungal cells and have been shown to alter the immune response, making it harder for the body to fight off the infection. By understanding how these cells interact with the immune system, researchers aim to identify new strategies to improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from cryptococcosis. The study involves laboratory experiments and analysis of immune responses to better understand the mechanisms of infection and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk of or currently experiencing cryptococcal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not immunocompromised or those without HIV/AIDS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cryptococcal infections, significantly reducing mortality rates in HIV/AIDS patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding pathogen-host interactions can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nielsen, Kirsten — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Nielsen, Kirsten
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.