Using antibodies to treat a serious fungal infection in HIV patients
Exploiting antibody catalysis for treating Cryptococcosis
This study is testing a new treatment for cryptococcosis, a serious fungal infection that can affect people with advanced HIV, by using special antibodies to help your immune system better fight the infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11075253 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new therapy for cryptococcosis, a severe fungal infection that primarily affects the central nervous system in patients with advanced HIV. The approach involves using monoclonal antibodies that can degrade the protective capsule of the fungus, making it more vulnerable to the immune system. By removing this capsule, the therapy aims to enhance the body's ability to fight the infection and improve patient outcomes. The research will explore the effectiveness of these antibodies in treating cryptococcosis and potentially preventing complications associated with HIV treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with advanced HIV infection who are at risk for or currently suffering from cryptococcosis.
Not a fit: Patients with cryptococcosis who do not have advanced HIV infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that significantly improves survival and quality of life for patients with cryptococcosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using monoclonal antibodies for treating fungal infections, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Casadevall, Arturo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Casadevall, Arturo
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.