Investigating how Candida albicans infects the brain
Official title: Systematic Genetic Analysis of C. albicans CNS Infection
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10766813 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common fungus called Candida albicans can infect the brain in people with weakened immune systems, like premature babies and certain adults, to find ways to prevent and treat these infections better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $234,319 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173445-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10766813 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include premature infants and adults with mutations in the CARD9 immune pathway who are at high risk for C. albicans CNS infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of Candida infections or those with intact immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the fungus Candida albicans can infect the central nervous system (CNS), particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. The study will utilize a new model to explore the genetic factors that allow C. albicans to invade the brain, especially in vulnerable populations such as premature infants and adults with specific genetic mutations. By screening various genetic mutants, the research aims to identify key regulators involved in this infection process, which could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and outcomes for patients suffering from CNS infections caused by Candida albicans.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on fungal infections, this specific approach to understanding C. albicans neurotropism is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krysan, Damian J — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Krysan, Damian J
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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.