Understanding how a fungus affects the brain in HIV/AIDS patients
Official title: Mechanisms underlying Cryptococcus neoformans-induced meningoencephalitis and neurotoxicity in a CD4 T cell-deficient mouse
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11023608 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans affects the brains of people with HIV/AIDS, hoping to find ways to help protect their brain health and improve treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 3, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $515,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187391-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11023608 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk for cryptococcal infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or those who are not at risk for cryptococcal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans on the brain, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS who are at risk for cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. The study focuses on how the fungus interacts with brain cells and the immune system, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that lead to neurological damage. By using a mouse model that mimics the immune deficiency seen in HIV/AIDS patients, researchers will explore how the fungus's polysaccharide capsule affects neuronal function and immune responses. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve outcomes for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments for cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality in HIV/AIDS patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the interactions between pathogens and the central nervous system can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez, Luis R — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Martinez, Luis R
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.