Understanding how certain proteins can kill a harmful fungus that affects people with AIDS
Official title: Mechanisms of Antifungal Activity of Dendritic Cell Lysosomal Proteins
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-10876044 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in immune cells can help fight off a harmful fungus that causes meningitis in people with AIDS, with the hope of creating safer and more effective treatments to stop the fungus from spreading to the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | April 12, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $437,263 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI183184-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876044 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with AIDS who are at risk of developing cryptococcal meningitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have AIDS or are not at risk for cryptococcal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific proteins found in dendritic cells can effectively kill the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, which causes severe meningitis in individuals with AIDS. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these proteins damage the fungal cell wall and membrane, leading to the death of the pathogen. By focusing on the early stages of infection in the lungs, the research seeks to develop new antifungal therapies that are less toxic and more effective than current treatments. Patients may benefit from potential new therapies that could prevent the spread of this dangerous fungus to the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antifungal treatments that are safer and more effective for patients with AIDS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting fungal pathogens with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel research.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wozniak, Karen Lynn — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Wozniak, Karen Lynn
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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.