Investigating how immune cells in the mouth respond to infections caused by Candida.
Official title: IL-17 receptor signaling in megakaryocytes and the implications for oral mucosal immune responses during oropharyngeal candidiasis
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-11123685 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in your mouth react during Candida infections, especially for those with weakened immune systems, to find better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $473,632 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DE034954-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123685 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS or undergoing cancer treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with healthy immune systems or those not affected by oropharyngeal candidiasis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of megakaryocytes, a type of immune cell, in the oral cavity during infections caused by Candida albicans, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. The study aims to explore how these cells respond to a specific immune signal, interleukin-17 (IL-17), which is crucial for fighting off infections. By examining the behavior of megakaryocytes in the context of oropharyngeal candidiasis, the research seeks to uncover new insights into immune responses that could lead to better treatments for affected patients. The findings may help establish a new understanding of how immune signaling works in the mouth and its implications for oral health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for oropharyngeal candidiasis, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of megakaryocytes in oral infections is not well-studied, related research on immune responses in other contexts has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
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University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Conti, Heather Raquel — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Conti, Heather Raquel
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.