Investigating how antibodies and B cells affect resistance to cryptococcal meningitis in HIV patients
Antibodies, B cells and resistance to human cryptococcosis
This study is looking at how certain antibodies and immune cells can help protect people with HIV from cryptococcal meningitis, a serious infection, by checking blood samples to see if specific antibody levels can show who might be at greater risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10885164 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of antibodies and B cells in protecting against cryptococcal meningitis (CM), particularly in individuals with HIV. The study aims to identify specific antibody responses that may indicate a person's risk of developing CM, especially in those with weakened immune systems. By analyzing blood samples from both HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients, researchers will explore how variations in antibody levels and B cell types relate to susceptibility to this serious infection. The ultimate goal is to develop biomarkers that can predict which patients are at higher risk for CM, potentially leading to better prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV, particularly those with a history of immunosuppression or who are at risk for cryptococcal meningitis.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not have any risk factors for cryptococcal meningitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting and preventing cryptococcal meningitis in vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding antibody responses in similar contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pirofski, Liise-Anne — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Pirofski, Liise-Anne
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.