Understanding how a fungal toxin affects vaginal infections
Official title: Candidalysin: a key mediator of Candida vaginitis immunopathology
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11021008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific toxin from the Candida fungus affects vaginal infections and the body's response, with the goal of finding new vaccines and treatments to help reduce symptoms and improve recovery for those dealing with these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $441,284 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI134796-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021008 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women of reproductive age who experience recurrent Candida vaginitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of Candida vaginitis or those with other underlying health conditions unrelated to fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a fungal peptide toxin called candidalysin in causing symptoms of vaginal infections, specifically those caused by Candida albicans. It aims to understand how variations in this toxin influence the body's immune response and the severity of the infection. The study will explore potential vaccination strategies and new chemical treatments that could reduce both fungal growth and inflammation, ultimately improving patient outcomes. By examining clinical isolates, the research seeks to identify how different forms of candidalysin affect disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments and preventive strategies for women suffering from recurrent vaginal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the immune response to fungal infections, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Brian M — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Peters, Brian M
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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.