Understanding fungal infections in the eye to find new treatments
The unfolded protein response as a therapeutic target for fungal keratitis
This research aims to discover new ways to treat fungal eye infections, a major cause of blindness worldwide.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11182737 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Fungal infections of the eye, called fungal keratitis, can lead to severe vision loss. Current antifungal medicines are not always effective, so we need new options. This project explores how fungi like Aspergillus fumigatus survive and grow in the eye by breaking down proteins. By understanding these fungal processes, we hope to identify new weak points that future medicines can target to stop the infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical trials stemming from this work would likely seek individuals with fungal keratitis.
Not a fit: Patients without fungal keratitis or other fungal infections would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new and more effective medications for fungal eye infections, potentially preventing blindness.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on initial findings that suggest a specific fungal pathway is crucial for infection, representing a novel approach to drug discovery.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuller, Kevin K. — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Fuller, Kevin K.
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.