Investigating early antigens of a fungal disease to improve vaccines and diagnostics
Early in vivo Expressed Antigens and their Role in Virulence, Immune Response, and Vaccines for Coccidioidomycosis
This study is looking at how our immune system reacts to the fungi that cause Valley Fever, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent and diagnose the disease, using both animal models and samples from people who have it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Arizona University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Flagstaff, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899651 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever, which is caused by specific fungal species. The team aims to understand how the immune system responds to early expressed antigens from these fungi, using advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 for gene editing in animal models. By studying these responses, they hope to identify key factors that contribute to the disease's virulence and develop new vaccines and diagnostic tests. The research involves both animal models and human patient samples to ensure comprehensive insights.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in endemic areas who may be at risk for coccidioidomycosis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in endemic regions or those who have already been diagnosed and treated for coccidioidomycosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines and diagnostic tools for Valley Fever, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to understand fungal infections and develop vaccines, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Flagstaff, United States
- Northern Arizona University — Flagstaff, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keim, Paul Stephen — Northern Arizona University
- Study coordinator: Keim, Paul Stephen
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.