Understanding how the immune system responds to oral fungal infections
Host and Fungal Regulation of Type 17 Immunity to Oral Candidiasis
This study is looking at how the immune system fights a fungal infection in the throat called oropharyngeal candidiasis, especially in people with weakened immune systems, to help find better ways to treat it.
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-10894795 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response to oropharyngeal candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. It focuses on the role of specific immune cells and signaling molecules, such as IL-17, in recognizing and combating this infection. By using mouse models, the study aims to uncover how the immune system activates in response to the fungus and why certain immune responses are triggered only by its invasive form. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS or other immunodeficiencies.
Not a fit: Patients with healthy immune systems or those not affected by oral candidiasis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with oral candidiasis, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to fungal infections, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
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.