Understanding how the fungus Candida albicans interacts with the human gut and other organs
Official title: Fungal regulatory systems directing mammalian host colonization
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11042276 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the common fungus Candida albicans can be both a friendly part of our gut and a troublemaker that causes infections, and it's using mice to learn more about how it behaves and interacts with our immune system, which could help us find better ways to treat infections in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | March 2, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $465,096 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175081-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042276 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems or those at risk of Candida infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy and have no history of fungal infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the dual role of Candida albicans as both a harmless resident of the gut and a potential pathogen that can cause serious infections. By using mouse models, the study aims to uncover the genetic factors that allow this fungus to thrive in the gut and how it can spread to other parts of the body. The research focuses on understanding the mechanisms that regulate the fungus's behavior in different environments, including its interactions with human immune cells. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for managing infections caused by this common fungus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections caused by Candida albicans, particularly in vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fungal interactions with the host, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perez, Jose Christian — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Perez, Jose Christian
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.