Understanding how fungi take up copper through specific proteins
Official title: Mechanisms for cellular copper import via secreted cuproproteins
Funded at Texas State University · NIH-11142817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein from a type of fungus helps it take in copper, which is important for its survival, and it aims to learn more about how different versions of this protein work and where they are found on the fungus's surface.
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) | $12,015 |
| NIH project number | 3R16GM146716-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142817 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. By studying a specific protein called Bim1 from the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, the researchers aim to understand how variations in this protein affect its ability to bind copper and how it is localized on the cell surface. The project will explore the diversity of these proteins in different fungal pathogens and their role in maintaining copper levels within cells, which is crucial for their growth and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing fungal infections by targeting their copper uptake mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying Bim1-like proteins is novel, similar research on fungal nutrient uptake has shown promising results in understanding pathogen 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.