Understanding how genetics affect the body's response to Aspergillus infections
Official title: Genetic Determinants of Aspergillus host-pathogen interactions
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10873894 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes affect how well our bodies fight off Aspergillus, a common fungus that can make people with weakened immune systems, like those with asthma or cystic fibrosis, very sick, with the goal of finding new ways to help these patients stay healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | June 23, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178048-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873894 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy and do not have any underlying respiratory conditions or immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that influence how the body interacts with Aspergillus, a common airborne fungus that can cause serious infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. The team aims to identify specific genetic pathways that could be targeted to improve the immune response against these infections. By studying how the body recognizes and responds to Aspergillus, the researchers hope to develop new therapeutic strategies that could enhance patient outcomes. This work is particularly relevant for patients suffering from conditions like asthma or cystic fibrosis, where Aspergillus can worsen their health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from Aspergillus infections, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding host-pathogen interactions with other pathogens, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fortwendel, Jarrod R. — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Fortwendel, Jarrod R.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
EP2 blockers to protect the brain after a stroke
Aims to test brain-permeable EP2 antagonists to reduce damage after ischemic stroke and improve recovery.
-
HIV drugs may also stop a dangerous fungus from growing
A cancer/antifungal researcher is exploring whether HIV medicines can help treat cryptococcal infections in people with HIV/AIDS.
-
Profiling immune cells to find early inflammation clues in kids with obesity and insulin resistance
This project looks at how immune cells in children with obesity may show early inflammatory changes linked to insulin resistance.
-
Targeted inhibitors to block a key enzyme and fight metastatic triple-negative breast cancer
A new drug candidate aimed at a specific enzyme in cancer cells is being developed to stop the spread of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer.
-
New fungal partner targets to curb Aspergillus infection in vulnerable patients
A NIH-funded project is exploring how the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus grows and causes serious infections in people with weakened immune systems, with the aim of finding new ways to stop it.
-
Epigenetic control of aging heart function
A scientist at a university is studying how aging changes heart function and whether a specific gene, KDM6A, influences this process to uncover ways to prevent or treat aging-related heart problems.
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.