Understanding how iron affects yeast infections in the mouth
Role of environmental iron in Candida albicans cell wall remodeling and its effect on host-pathogen interaction during oropharyngeal candidiasis
This research explores how iron levels in the mouth affect yeast infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems or diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128833 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to uncover how the amount of iron in the mouth influences Candida albicans, a common yeast that can cause infections like oral thrush. We know that Candida can sense iron and change its behavior, affecting how it interacts with the body and responds to medicines. Our early findings suggest that less iron can reduce the yeast's ability to cause disease, while more iron can make infections worse. We are looking closely at how iron changes the yeast's outer layer, called the cell wall, which is crucial for its survival and how it interacts with our immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals who are immunocompromised or have diabetes, as they are more susceptible to oropharyngeal candidiasis.
Not a fit: Patients without oropharyngeal candidiasis or those not at risk for fungal infections would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new ways to prevent or treat oral yeast infections, particularly for vulnerable patients.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from this team suggests a link between iron and Candida virulence, building on existing knowledge about Candida's iron sensing capabilities.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Temple Univ of the Commonwealth — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Puri, Sumant — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Puri, Sumant
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.