Investigating how certain regulators affect the behavior and harmfulness of a common fungal pathogen.
Official title: Roles of C. albicans white-opaque regulators in biofilm and virulence
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11112437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the Candida albicans fungus help it form protective layers and cause infections, which could lead to better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | June 11, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $195,312 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI185250-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of infections from Candida albicans, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any risk factors for Candida infections or those with other unrelated health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Candida albicans, a significant fungal pathogen that can change its form in response to different conditions. The study aims to understand how specific regulators, known as Wor1 and Wor3, influence the formation of biofilms and the pathogen's ability to cause harm. By using genetic interaction strategies, the researchers will explore how these regulators affect the pathogen's virulence and its interactions with host cells. This could lead to new insights into how to combat infections caused by this fungus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by Candida albicans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the roles of genetic regulators in fungal pathogens, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mitchell, Aaron P — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Mitchell, Aaron P
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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.