Investigating how Candida albicans affects host cell behavior
Official title: Candida albicans Sap6 dysregulates host epithelial protease-antiprotease expression
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10739848 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a yeast called Candida albicans affects the cells in your mouth, especially how a specific protein it releases can change how those cells behave, with the goal of finding better ways to prevent and treat mouth infections, particularly for people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $321,542 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE032393-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739848 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised or critically ill and at risk for mucosal candidiasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-immunocompromised conditions or those not at risk for candidiasis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the yeast Candida albicans interacts with oral epithelial cells, particularly how its secreted protease Sap6 alters the expression of host proteases and affects cell migration. By examining the mechanisms behind these changes, the study aims to identify potential targets for improving prevention and treatment of mucosal candidiasis, especially in vulnerable populations like the immunocompromised. The research involves laboratory experiments to analyze the effects of Sap6 on epithelial cell function and immune response.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for mucosal candidiasis, reducing morbidity and mortality in affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interactions between Candida albicans and host cells, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Rohitashw — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Rohitashw
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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.