Understanding how aging affects a brain infection caused by a fungus in AIDS patients
Host-Pathogen Dynamics in Microglia during C. neoformans and HIV Co-infection
This study looks at how older Cryptococcus neoformans fungus behaves during infections in people with AIDS, focusing on how it interacts with brain immune cells, to help us understand why these older cells might make the illness worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11084773 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the aging of the Cryptococcus neoformans fungus impacts its behavior during infections in patients with AIDS. It focuses on the interaction between this fungus and microglial cells, which are immune cells in the brain. By analyzing cerebrospinal fluid from AIDS patients, the study aims to understand how older fungal cells survive better and contribute to disease progression. The research employs techniques to assess the lifespan and resistance of these aged cells, providing insights into their role in chronic meningoencephalitis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with AIDS who are experiencing or at risk for chronic meningoencephalitis.
Not a fit: Patients without AIDS or those not affected by chronic brain infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic brain infections in AIDS patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding host-pathogen interactions can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fries, Bettina — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Fries, Bettina
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.