Natural compounds to treat oral infections in HIV patients

Natural Phenolic Compounds against Oral Candidiasis (OC)

NIH-funded research Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-10836931

This study is looking at how well natural compounds called caffeic acid phenethyl ester and ellagic acid can help treat oral candidiasis, a common infection for people living with HIV, to find safer and more effective options than current antifungal treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMethodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10836931 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of natural phenolic compounds, specifically caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and ellagic acid (EA), in treating oral candidiasis, a common infection in individuals living with HIV. The study aims to address the limitations of current antifungal treatments, which often fail due to drug resistance and side effects. By exploring the antimicrobial properties of these compounds, the research seeks to provide a safer and more effective alternative for patients suffering from this condition. The approach includes testing these compounds in laboratory models and assessing their impact on fungal growth and biofilm formation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing oral candidiasis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those without oral candidiasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for oral candidiasis that are less likely to encounter resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using natural compounds for antifungal treatment, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.