Understanding Blastomycosis Infection in People
Molecular pathogenesis of blastomycosis
This research explores why some people, particularly those of Hmong descent, are more likely to get sick from blastomycosis, a fungal infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093983 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our long-term work focuses on understanding how the fungus that causes blastomycosis makes people sick. We recently found that people of Hmong descent in Wisconsin have a unique vulnerability to this infection. This vulnerability seems to be linked to a problem with a specific immune signal called Interleukin 6 (IL-6), which helps the body fight off infections. We are now using advanced cell models from patients to understand how changes in a gene called IL6-AS1 affect this immune response and lead to impaired protection against blastomycosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future related studies might include individuals with blastomycosis, particularly those of Hmong descent, or their family members.
Not a fit: Patients without blastomycosis or those not part of the specific genetic background being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to diagnose, prevent, or treat blastomycosis, especially for vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon over two decades of work on blastomycosis and has already uncovered significant findings regarding genetic susceptibility in a specific population.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Klein, Bruce Steven — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Klein, Bruce Steven
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.