How Group B Strep and Candida yeast interact in the gut and birth canal
Characterization of Interkingdom Synergy between Group B Streptococcus and Candida albicans
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11231278
Researchers are looking at how the common yeast Candida and Group B Strep interact in the gut and birth canal to help protect pregnant people and newborns from infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11231278 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team uses lab experiments and mouse models to study how Candida albicans and Group B Streptococcus live together in the gastrointestinal and female reproductive tracts. They will examine whether the yeast helps the bacteria stick, grow, or move during pregnancy and after birth and will analyze samples relevant to transmission such as vaginal tissue and breast milk in the lab. By mapping these cross-kingdom interactions, the researchers aim to understand steps that lead to maternal colonization and neonatal exposure. Findings could identify targets for future prevention strategies to reduce newborn infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to pregnant people, those planning pregnancy, and newborns with or at risk for Group B Strep or vaginal yeast colonization.
Not a fit: People without pregnancy or without risk factors for GBS or Candida colonization are less likely to see direct benefits from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent maternal GBS colonization and lower newborn infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies and early animal models have suggested Candida can increase GBS colonization, but the exact cross-kingdom mechanisms are still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER — Aurora, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DORAN, KELLY S — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- Study coordinator: DORAN, KELLY S
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.