Investigating factors that lead to Candida colonization in critically ill patients
Official title: Pathogen and patient determinants of Candida gut colonization in critically ill patients
Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-11096085 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain traits of both patients and the Candida fungus can affect the chances of getting a gut infection in critically ill patients in the ICU, with the goal of finding ways to prevent serious infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,036 |
| NIH project number | 5K23AI185174-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096085 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients in intensive care units who are at high risk for Candida infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not critically ill or those who do not have a history of Candida infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain characteristics of both patients and the Candida pathogen contribute to gut colonization in critically ill patients, particularly those in intensive care units (ICUs). The study aims to identify specific host and pathogen factors that increase the risk of Candida colonization, which can lead to severe bloodstream infections. By analyzing data from ICU patients, the research will explore the relationship between gut colonization and clinical outcomes, especially in the context of multidrug-resistant Candida species. This work is crucial for developing better prevention strategies for infections in vulnerable patient populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for Candida infections in critically ill patients, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding host-pathogen interactions can lead to significant advancements in infection control, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adelman, Max Wiener — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Adelman, Max Wiener
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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.