Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) awarded a $449,625 Project Grant to the Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (doing business as Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute) under the Oral Diseases and Disorders Research program (CFDA 93.121). The award, effective May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2028, supports basic and translational research investigating the role of immunomodulators interleukin-33 (IL-33) and small proline-rich proteins (SPRRs) in oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), a major fungal infection complication affecting immunocompromised populations including neonates, cancer patients, and individuals with HIV/AIDS.

The research utilizes advanced spatial genomics technology to comprehensively map immune responses in Candida-infected oral tissue and to develop novel therapeutic approaches targeting anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory pathways that regulate fungal infection and tissue repair. Specifically, the project involves characterizing the expression of IL-33/ST2 axis signaling and SPRR proteins in infected tissues, followed by preclinical testing of recombinant IL-33 and recombinant SPRR treatments to evaluate their efficacy in eradicating OPC in murine models and direct antifungal activity in vitro. The findings are intended to advance understanding of host-pathogen interactions and inform development of novel therapeutic interventions to reduce morbidity and complications associated with oropharyngeal candidiasis in immunocompromised populations.