Investigating the role of specific antigens in the immune response and vaccines for Valley Fever.
Early in vivo expressed antigens and their role in virulence, immune response, and vaccines for coccidioidomycosis
This study is looking at how certain parts of the Coccidioides fungus that causes Valley Fever affect the immune system, with the goal of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the disease and to help create effective vaccines for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Arizona University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Flagstaff, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899658 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain antigens from the Coccidioides fungus, which causes Valley Fever, affect the immune response in patients. By studying T cell responses in both human patients and animal models, the researchers aim to identify specific T cell clones and their associated epitopes that are crucial for developing effective vaccines. The project will utilize a T cell peptide stimulation strategy to link these epitopes to their T cell receptors (TCRs), which may help improve diagnosis and treatment of Valley Fever. The ultimate goal is to enhance patient outcomes by prioritizing vaccine candidates based on these findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in areas with high prevalence of Valley Fever, particularly those experiencing symptoms that may be misdiagnosed.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in endemic areas or those who have already been diagnosed and treated for Valley Fever may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods and effective vaccines for Valley Fever, reducing misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying immune responses to Coccidioides, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Flagstaff, United States
- Northern Arizona University — Flagstaff, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Settles, Erik W — Northern Arizona University
- Study coordinator: Settles, Erik W
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 below.