Understanding how fungi take up copper through special proteins
Official title: Mechanisms for cellular copper import via secreted cuproproteins
Funded at Texas State University · NIH-10846829 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain proteins from fungi help them take in copper, which is important for their growth, and it aims to understand how these proteins work so we can learn more about fungal infections and their nutritional needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Marcos, United States) |
| Project start | July 21, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM146716-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10846829 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with fungal infections, particularly those caused by opportunistic pathogens, may benefit from this research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-fungal infections or conditions unrelated to fungal pathogens are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain proteins secreted by fungi help them absorb copper, an essential nutrient for their survival. The study focuses on a specific group of proteins known as Bim1-like proteins, which are believed to play a crucial role in copper uptake during the fungi's interaction with their host. By examining the variations in these proteins, the research aims to uncover how they affect the fungi's ability to bind copper and maintain its levels within their cells. This could provide insights into the mechanisms of fungal infections and their nutritional needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating fungal infections by targeting their copper uptake mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying Bim1-like proteins is novel, research on fungal nutrient uptake has shown promising results in understanding fungal biology.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas State University
San Marcos, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peterson, Ryan Loren — Texas State University
- Study coordinator: Peterson, Ryan Loren
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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.