Understanding how a protein affects the ability of a fungus to cause disease in people with HIV/AIDS
Official title: Calcineurin signaling cascades governing Cryptococcus virulence
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11017787 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called calcineurin helps the fungus Cryptococcus survive in tough conditions, especially in people with HIV/AIDS, to find new ways to create better antifungal treatments that are easier on the immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | March 16, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $652,751 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172451-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017787 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 of infections caused by Cryptococcus and other related fungi.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or are not at risk for fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of calcineurin, a protein that helps the fungus Cryptococcus survive in stressful conditions, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS. By studying how calcineurin contributes to the fungus's ability to thrive at body temperature and resist other stressors, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic targets. The approach involves examining the molecular mechanisms of calcineurin signaling and its impact on the virulence of Cryptococcus and other related fungi. The ultimate goal is to develop less immunosuppressive antifungal treatments that can effectively combat these infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antifungal therapies that are safer and more effective for patients with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting calcineurin in other pathogens has potential, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in antifungal therapies.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heitman, Joseph — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Heitman, Joseph
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.