Creating a vaccine to prevent cryptosporidiosis in children
Developing vaccines against the intracellular and extracellular Lifestages of the Cryptosporidium parasite
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect young children from cryptosporidiosis, a disease that causes bad diarrhea, especially in places like sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139660 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a vaccine against cryptosporidiosis, a disease caused by the Cryptosporidium parasite that leads to severe diarrhea, particularly in young children. The project focuses on creating a vaccine that targets multiple life stages of the parasite to enhance immunity. Researchers will utilize a novel liposomal vaccine formulation that stimulates both cellular and humoral immune responses. The goal is to provide a preventive measure for a disease that significantly impacts children's health in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old living in regions affected by cryptosporidiosis, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those living in regions not affected by cryptosporidiosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a much-needed vaccine to prevent cryptosporidiosis, reducing illness and mortality in young children.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting similar parasitic infections, but this specific approach to cryptosporidiosis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilchrist, Carol a — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Gilchrist, Carol a
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.