Understanding how a yeast infection affects immune cell function
Official title: Modulation of Macrophage Antifungal Activity by the Transcriptional Co-regulator CITED1
Funded at Middle Tennessee State University · NIH-10727860 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of yeast called Cryptococcus neoformans manages to escape being killed by immune cells in our body, and it aims to find ways to help those immune cells do their job better, especially for people dealing with infections that are hard to treat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Middle Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Murfreesboro, United States) |
| Project start | May 31, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $389,747 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI178461-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727860 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or have been diagnosed with infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with Cryptococcus neoformans or those with fully functioning immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the pathogenic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans interacts with immune cells called macrophages. It focuses on understanding how this yeast can evade destruction by these cells, which normally help fight infections. The study aims to identify factors that enhance the ability of macrophages to kill the yeast, particularly through a process called M1 polarization, which is stimulated by certain immune signals. By exploring the genetic changes that occur during this interaction, the research seeks to develop new strategies to combat drug-resistant strains of the yeast.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with these infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to fungal infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nelson, David Edward — Middle Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Nelson, David Edward
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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.