Understanding how bacteria can enhance the effectiveness of antifungal drugs against Candida infections
Official title: Genetic determinants of bacterial-drug synergy against Candida
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-10584713 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the fungus Candida and the bacteria Pseudomonas work together in people with cystic fibrosis or on ventilators, to find better ways to treat infections caused by them, especially when using the antifungal medicine fluconazole.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | November 18, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $435,110 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI169393-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10584713 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include hospitalized patients, particularly those with cystic fibrosis or those requiring mechanical ventilation who are at risk for Candida and Pseudomonas co-infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opportunistic infections or those who are not hospitalized may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the fungus Candida albicans and the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, particularly in patients with cystic fibrosis and those on ventilators. The team aims to uncover how these two pathogens influence each other's behavior and resistance to antifungal treatments, specifically focusing on the antifungal drug fluconazole. By studying these interactions, the researchers hope to develop improved therapeutic strategies that could enhance treatment outcomes for patients suffering from these co-infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with serious fungal infections, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with these infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbe interactions and their impact on treatment efficacy, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wheeler, Robert T. — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Wheeler, Robert T.
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.