Stopping a fungal protein that helps Cryptococcus survive in the body
Calcineurin signaling cascades governing Cryptococcus virulence
Researchers are working to block a fungal protein called calcineurin that lets Cryptococcus survive and cause infections, with the goal of protecting people at high risk such as those with HIV/AIDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11285256 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how a fungal protein, calcineurin, helps Cryptococcus neoformans survive human body temperature and other stresses that allow it to cause disease. Scientists use fungal cells and animal models to map the signaling steps calcineurin controls and to find fungal-specific pieces of the pathway. They are also exploring modified compounds that inhibit fungal calcineurin activity without suppressing the human immune system. The results are intended to point toward new antifungal drug targets and inform future patient trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most relevant to this research include those with HIV/AIDS or other immune suppression who are at high risk for cryptococcal infection, and patients with current or recent cryptococcal disease who might donate samples or join future clinical trials.
Not a fit: Individuals without cryptococcal or related fungal infections are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic-science grant in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new antifungal treatments that are effective against cryptococcal infections but do not weaken patients' immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory and animal studies have shown that blocking calcineurin can reduce fungal virulence, but safe, non-immunosuppressive therapies for people have not yet been established.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heitman, Joseph — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Heitman, Joseph
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.