Creating a new pig model to study lung disease caused by Ascaris infection.
Official title: Development of a novel translational porcine model of Ascaris-induced chronic lung disease.
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10993616 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Ascaris roundworm impacts lung health in kids and adults in places where this parasite is common, using a special pig model to help us learn more about the lung problems it can cause and how we might treat or prevent them better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,843 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI180714-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993616 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly children and adults, living in parasite-endemic regions who are at risk of Ascaris infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas where Ascaris is prevalent or who have not been exposed to the parasite may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Ascaris roundworm affects lung health, particularly in children and adults living in areas where this parasite is common. By developing a novel pig model, which closely resembles human lung anatomy and immune responses, the researchers aim to better understand the chronic lung disease that can result from Ascaris infections. The study will explore the immune responses and structural changes in the lungs caused by the parasite, providing insights that could lead to improved treatments and prevention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of chronic lung diseases associated with Ascaris infections, ultimately improving health outcomes for affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using animal models has shown promise in understanding the effects of Ascaris on lung health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weatherhead, Jill Elizabeth — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Weatherhead, Jill Elizabeth
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.