Investigating how non-genetic factors contribute to drug resistance in infections

Understanding and targeting non-genetic mechanisms of drug resistance

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10867271

This study is looking at how certain changes in cells help the fungus Candida albicans become resistant to antifungal treatments, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients get the most effective care possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10867271 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how non-genetic mechanisms, such as changes in chromatin and protein states, contribute to drug resistance in infections, particularly in the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The approach involves advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and CRISPR-based screening to identify how these mechanisms develop and affect treatment outcomes. By exploring these pathways, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of existing antifungal treatments. Patients may benefit from improved treatment options that address drug resistance more effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from drug-resistant infections, particularly those caused by Candida albicans.

Not a fit: Patients with infections that are not drug-resistant or those who do not have infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that overcome drug resistance, significantly improving treatment outcomes for patients with infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting genetic mechanisms of drug resistance, but the focus on non-genetic mechanisms is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.