Creating new drugs to fight parasitic worm infections

Development of small molecule inhibitors of metabolic enzymes as broad spectrum anthelmintic drugs

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11039915

This study is looking for new medicines to help fight infections caused by parasitic worms, like hookworms and roundworms, which affect millions of people around the world.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11039915 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing small molecule inhibitors that target metabolic enzymes in parasitic worms, such as hookworms and roundworms, which affect over two billion people globally. By analyzing the genomes of these parasites, the researchers aim to identify key enzymes that can be inhibited to effectively combat these infections. The approach involves using advanced bioinformatics and systems biology to discover and test new therapeutic compounds that could provide broad-spectrum treatment options for these debilitating diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are infected with or at risk of parasitic worm infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have parasitic worm infections or are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, effective treatments for parasitic worm infections, improving health outcomes for millions of affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing similar therapeutic approaches targeting metabolic pathways in parasites, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.