A vaccine to protect against blood-feeding parasites in humans and sheep
A dual-purpose vaccine targeting blood-feeding nematode parasites of sheep and humans
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect people and sheep from hookworms, which are pesky parasites that can cause health problems, especially as some treatments are becoming less effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10651707 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a dual-purpose vaccine aimed at combating blood-feeding gastrointestinal nematode parasites, specifically targeting hookworms that affect both humans and sheep. The approach involves advanced genomic and immunoinformatic techniques to identify potential vaccine targets that can stimulate an immune response. By addressing the growing issue of drug resistance in these parasites, the research aims to provide a preventive measure that could significantly reduce the health impacts associated with these infections. If successful, this vaccine could help improve health outcomes for affected populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in areas with high rates of hookworm infections, particularly those experiencing anemia or related health complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by hookworm infections or who do not reside in endemic areas may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of anemia and other health issues caused by hookworm infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing vaccines against similar parasitic infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aroian, Raffi V — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Aroian, Raffi V
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.