Understanding how heme affects fungal infections in the lungs
Multiscale modeling of the role of heme during invasive pulmonary aspergillosis
This study is looking at how a substance called heme, which comes from bleeding in the lungs, affects the growth of a serious fungal infection called invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in people with weakened immune systems, with the goal of finding better treatments to help fight the infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11058062 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of heme in the context of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, a serious fungal infection that primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems. By developing a multi-scale computational model, the researchers aim to explore how heme, released during lung hemorrhage, influences both the growth of the Aspergillus fungus and the host's immune response. The study seeks to identify new treatment strategies that could enhance antifungal therapies by targeting the interactions between the fungus and the host's defense mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with weakened immune systems who are at risk for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.
Not a fit: Patients with strong immune systems or those not affected by fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, particularly those who are immunocompromised.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding host-pathogen interactions in fungal infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehrad, Borna — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Mehrad, Borna
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.