Understanding how Candida albicans grows in the gut
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of Candida albicans gut colonization
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11087680 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the fungus Candida albicans lives in the gut, where it can be harmless but sometimes causes infections if it grows too much, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this fungus behaves so we can find better ways to diagnose and treat related infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $636,320 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179767-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087680 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of recurrent fungal infections or those at risk of developing such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any history of fungal infections or related gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the fungus Candida albicans colonizes the gut, where it can exist harmlessly but may also cause infections if it overgrows. The team uses advanced genetic techniques to identify specific factors that help this fungus thrive in the gut environment. By studying these factors in a mouse model, they aim to uncover how Candida transitions from a harmless state to one that can cause disease. This knowledge could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for fungal infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for diagnosing and treating fungal infections caused by Candida albicans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding microbial colonization in other contexts, but this specific focus on Candida albicans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Noble, Suzanne M — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Noble, Suzanne M
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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.