Understanding how a fungus transports a key lipid that antifungal drugs target
Official title: Leveraging genomic approaches to define sterol transport in Cryptococcus neoformans
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10847533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a key fat called ergosterol moves around in a fungus that can cause serious infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems, to help find better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 24, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $233,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178330-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems who are at risk of infections from Cryptococcus neoformans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fungal infections caused by other organisms or those who are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transport mechanisms of ergosterol, a crucial lipid in the plasma membrane of the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, which is responsible for severe infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The study employs genetic screening to identify genes that affect ergosterol levels and explores how these genes influence the movement of ergosterol within the cell. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to enhance our understanding of fungal biology and improve treatment strategies against this dangerous pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved antifungal therapies and better outcomes for patients suffering from infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of ergosterol transport in Cryptococcus neoformans have not been previously studied, similar genetic approaches have shown promise in understanding lipid transport in other organisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doering, Tamara L — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Doering, Tamara L
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.