Understanding drug resistance in serious fungal infections
RNAi-dependent epimutation roles in antimicrobial drug resistance and pathogenesis
This research explores how certain fungi become resistant to medicines, especially those causing difficult-to-treat infections in people.
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-11139540 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into a group of fungi called Mucor species, which cause severe infections that are hard to treat and have limited drug options. Our team has found a new way these fungi develop drug resistance, called 'epimutation,' where a pathway in the fungus called RNAi temporarily silences drug target genes. This discovery helps us understand why some treatments stop working and how resistance can appear and disappear. By learning more about this process, we hope to find better ways to fight these challenging infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients who suffer from severe, drug-resistant fungal infections, particularly those caused by Mucor species.
Not a fit: Patients without fungal infections or those whose infections respond well to current treatments may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for overcoming drug resistance in severe fungal infections, improving treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous discoveries by the same team regarding a novel mechanism of antifungal drug resistance, showing significant advances in understanding epimutation.
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.