Understanding how a fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans produces melanin
Official title: The biology of Cryptococcus neoformans melanization
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11015834 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans, which can be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, makes a protective pigment called melanin that makes it tougher to treat with medications, and it aims to discover new ways to fight these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $785,315 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI171093-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015834 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those living with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections who are not immunocompromised may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biology of Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungal pathogen that poses a significant risk to immunosuppressed individuals. It focuses on how this fungus produces melanin, a pigment that not only protects the fungus but also makes it harder to treat with antifungal medications. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing biochemical, cell biology, and advanced spectroscopic techniques to explore the mechanisms behind melanin production and its effects on the immune response. By identifying how melanin is exported and its role in interactions with immune cells, the research aims to find new ways to combat fungal infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the effectiveness of antifungal therapies for patients with serious fungal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fungal pathogens and their resistance mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Casadevall, Arturo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Casadevall, Arturo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.