Understanding how Aspergillus fumigatus spores start to grow
Official title: Translational Control of Conidial Germination in Aspergillus fumigatus
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11123374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus starts to grow and become harmful, especially for people with weakened immune systems, to help find better ways to treat infections caused by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI186304-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are immunocompromised individuals, such as organ transplant recipients and cancer patients, who are at high risk for infections caused by Aspergillus fumigatus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not immunocompromised or do not have a history of fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process by which the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus begins to germinate and grow, particularly focusing on the role of translational control mechanisms. By examining how these spores transition from dormancy to active growth, the study aims to uncover new insights into the virulence of this pathogen, which poses a significant risk to immunocompromised patients. The approach includes analyzing stored transcripts in dormant spores and how they are translated into proteins that facilitate germination. This could lead to the development of new antifungal strategies to combat infections caused by this fungus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from severe fungal infections, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting translational mechanisms can effectively inhibit fungal growth, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kadosh, David — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Kadosh, David
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.