Understanding how our bodies fight oral fungal infections
Host and Fungal Regulation of Type 17 Immunity to Oral Candidiasis
This research explores how our immune system, specifically Type 17 immunity, works with the fungus *C. albicans* to prevent oral candidiasis, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11111168 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a common fungal infection in the mouth, particularly affecting individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with T cell deficiencies. The main culprit, *C. albicans*, can change its shape to become more invasive, triggering a 'danger' response in the cells lining our mouths. This project aims to understand how these early signals from oral cells activate a crucial part of our immune defense, called Type 17 immunity. We want to discover why this protective response only happens when the fungus becomes invasive, using advanced laboratory techniques to uncover these vital immune mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), who are prone to oral fungal infections.
Not a fit: Patients without a weakened immune system or those not experiencing oral fungal infections may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating oral fungal infections, offering relief to individuals with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown the importance of IL-17 in fighting mucosal candidiasis in both mice and humans, providing a strong foundation for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gaffen, Sarah L — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Gaffen, Sarah L
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.