Understanding how a common fungus lives in our intestines
C. albicans-intrinsic mechanisms defining gut colonization
['FUNDING_R01'] · BROWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11123260
This project explores how the common fungus Candida albicans lives in our gut and interacts with other bacteria, aiming to understand its role in health and disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BROWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123260 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The fungus Candida albicans often lives in our intestines, but it can also cause infections throughout the body. Understanding how this fungus colonizes the gut is important because it can sometimes spread and cause more serious health issues. This project aims to discover how C. albicans establishes itself in the gut, particularly when many other bacteria are present, and without the use of antibiotics. Researchers are also focusing on a specific toxin produced by the fungus, called Candidalysin, to see how it helps the fungus thrive in the gut environment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but it aims to benefit individuals susceptible to Candida infections in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not at risk for Candida infections or those whose conditions are unrelated to gut fungal colonization may not see direct benefit from this specific basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Candida infections that start in the gut, potentially reducing serious health complications.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have explored Candida colonization, this project introduces novel insights into its behavior in the gut without antibiotic treatment and highlights the role of a specific fungal toxin.
Where this research is happening
PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES
- BROWN UNIVERSITY — PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BENNETT, RICHARD JOHN — BROWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BENNETT, RICHARD JOHN
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.