Understanding how a fungus adapts to body temperature in HIV patients
The role of septins in the adaptation of Cryptococcus neoformans to host temperature in HIV-based cryptococcosis
This study is looking at how a fungus that can cause serious infections in people with HIV/AIDS changes to survive at body temperature, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these infections with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10893360 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans adapts to the temperature of its host, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS. The study focuses on how this adaptation contributes to the pathogen's ability to cause severe infections, such as meningo-encephalitis. By examining the role of specific proteins called septins, the research aims to uncover new pathways that could lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects for patients suffering from cryptococcosis. The approach involves laboratory experiments that analyze how temperature affects the fungus's cellular processes and its interaction with the host's immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk of developing cryptococcal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or those who are not at risk for cryptococcal infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatment strategies that reduce mortality rates associated with cryptococcosis in HIV/AIDS patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on septins and temperature adaptation in Cryptococcus neoformans is novel, previous research has shown success in understanding fungal pathogenicity and developing targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
Clemson, United States
- Clemson University — Clemson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kozubowski, Lukasz — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Kozubowski, Lukasz
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.