How specific proteins control energy production in a common fungal pathogen.
Official title: Control of Mitochondrial Function by SPFH Proteins in Pathogenic Yeast
Funded at John Jay College of Criminal Justice · NIH-10916270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in a common fungus called Candida albicans help it survive tough conditions and resist treatments, with the hope that understanding this could lead to new ways to fight fungal infections in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | John Jay College of Criminal Justice NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $121,637 |
| NIH project number | 5SC3GM135016-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals suffering from recurrent or severe Candida infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections caused by organisms other than Candida albicans may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of SPFH proteins in the mitochondria of Candida albicans, a prevalent fungal pathogen in humans. By examining how these proteins affect mitochondrial function, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that allow the fungus to survive environmental stress and resist antifungal treatments. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate gene expression and analyze the resulting effects on the fungus's energy production and pathogenicity. Patients may benefit from insights gained into new antifungal therapies that target these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antifungal treatments for infections caused by Candida albicans.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting SPFH proteins in Candida albicans is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding mitochondrial functions in other pathogens.
Where this research is happening
-
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rauceo, Jason Malcolm — John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Study coordinator: Rauceo, Jason Malcolm
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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.