Understanding how amyloid proteins interact in fungal infections
Official title: Adhesin Amyloid Biology
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10877188 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins interact with each other to better understand fungal infections like those caused by Candida albicans, with the hope that the findings will help create better treatments for patients dealing with these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $228,198 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178229-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877188 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with recurrent or severe fungal infections, especially those caused by Candida albicans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-fungal infections or those who do not have a history of fungal-related health issues may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between amyloid proteins, which are crucial for understanding infections caused by fungi like Candida albicans. By identifying the molecular and structural factors that influence these interactions, the study aims to create a comprehensive knowledgebase that can help define the rules governing amyloid cross-seeding. The focus is on adhesins, a type of functional amyloid that plays a significant role in fungal virulence and biofilm formation. Patients may benefit from insights gained in this research, particularly in developing antifungal therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding amyloid interactions and their implications for fungal infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Anuj — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Anuj
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.