Understanding how fungi move from the blood to the brain.

The molecular basis for the translocation of fungi from blood-to-brain.

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10978183

This study is looking at how certain fungi, like Candida albicans, can get into the brain and cause infections, with the goal of finding ways to stop these infections and keep you healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10978183 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain fungi, such as Candida albicans, can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause infections in the central nervous system. The study focuses on the interactions between fungal cells and specific receptors in the brain's blood vessels, aiming to uncover how these pathogens penetrate the barrier. By examining the molecular pathways involved, the research seeks to provide insights into preventing or treating these serious infections that can lead to significant health complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with AIDS or other conditions that increase susceptibility to fungal infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a risk of fungal infections or those with intact immune systems may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating fungal infections in the brain, improving outcomes for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding similar mechanisms of infection, but this specific approach to studying fungal translocation across the blood-brain barrier is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.