Understanding how SP140 helps the immune system fight a fungal infection linked to HIV.
Assessing the role of SP140 in enhanced resistance to Cryptococcus neoformans
This study is looking at how a protein called SP140 helps boost the immune system's fight against a harmful fungus that can cause serious infections in people with HIV/AIDS, with the goal of finding new ways to protect those with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10993854 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called SP140 in enhancing the immune response against Cryptococcus neoformans, a dangerous fungus that causes severe infections in people with HIV/AIDS. The study aims to understand how the immune system, particularly CD4+ T cells, interacts with this fungus and how granulomas (clusters of immune cells) form and break down during infection. By using advanced models that better mimic human disease, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic strategies to prevent the spread of this infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk of developing cryptococcal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are immunocompetent and do not have HIV/AIDS are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce mortality rates from cryptococcal meningitis in patients with HIV/AIDS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to fungal infections, but this specific approach to studying SP140 in relation to Cryptococcus neoformans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Betancourt, Jovany Jordan — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Betancourt, Jovany Jordan
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.