Targeting a protein in fungi to improve antifungal treatments
Official title: Targeting Hsp90 in cryptococcal fungal pathogenesis
Funded at University of Toronto · NIH-10884889 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Hsp90 in the fungus that causes serious infections like cryptococcal meningitis, with the goal of creating new antifungal medicines that work better and have fewer side effects for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toronto NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toronto, Canada) |
| Project start | July 21, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $653,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI165466-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884889 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cryptococcal infections, particularly those with compromised immune systems such as those living with HIV/AIDS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections caused by organisms other than Cryptococcus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Hsp90 protein in the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus, which causes severe infections like cryptococcal meningitis. The study aims to develop new antifungal drugs that specifically target Hsp90, potentially overcoming the limitations of current treatments that often fail due to drug resistance. By focusing on fungal-specific inhibitors, the research seeks to enhance the effectiveness of existing antifungal therapies while minimizing toxicity to patients. The approach is based on previous findings that suggest targeting Hsp90 can improve treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective antifungal treatments for patients suffering from cryptococcal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting Hsp90 for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in similar approaches for fungal infections.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toronto
Toronto, Canada Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowen, Leah Elizabeth — University of Toronto
- Study coordinator: Cowen, Leah Elizabeth
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.