Understanding how a host defense peptide affects survival during fungal infections.
Cathelicidin modulates the host response during fungal sepsis.
This study is looking at how a natural defense protein called cathelicidin helps our body fight off fungal infections like Candida, which can sometimes cause serious illness, especially in people with diabetes, to find new ways to improve treatment and survival.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10710030 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific host defense peptide, cathelicidin, in the body's response to fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida that can lead to sepsis. The study aims to understand how the absence of cathelicidin affects survival rates and immune responses during these infections. Researchers will explore the relationship between cathelicidin, inflammatory cytokines, and the impact of diabetes on these responses. By using animal models, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for sepsis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for fungal infections, particularly those with diabetes or other conditions that compromise their immune response.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a risk of fungal infections or those who are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from fungal sepsis, potentially reducing mortality rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding host-pathogen interactions can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies for severe infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coady, Alison Michele — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Coady, Alison Michele
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.