Understanding how Cryptococcus survives in the human body
Genetic and mechanistic analysis of carbon dioxide tolerance in Cryptococcus pathogenesis
This study looks at how a type of yeast called Cryptococcus survives in the human body, especially in high carbon dioxide levels, to help find new ways to treat cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a serious infection that can affect people with HIV/AIDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10761792 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the yeast Cryptococcus adapts to the human environment, particularly focusing on its tolerance to carbon dioxide levels. By studying the genetic and biological mechanisms that allow Cryptococcus to thrive in humans, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for treating cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a serious infection that often affects individuals with HIV/AIDS. The approach includes genetic screening and analysis of the yeast's growth patterns in different CO2 concentrations to understand its pathogenesis better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cryptococcal infections or are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for cryptococcal infections, improving survival rates for patients with HIV/AIDS.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding fungal pathogenesis through genetic analysis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krysan, Damian J — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Krysan, Damian J
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 below.