Developing new treatments for giardiasis using specific enzyme inhibitors

Methionyl-tRNA Synthetase inhibitors can be developed as novel Giardiasis therapeutics

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10816580

This study is looking for new treatments for giardiasis, a tummy bug that can make kids really sick, by testing different compounds that target a key enzyme in the parasite, hoping to find better options for those who need help.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10816580 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on giardiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by Giardia lamblia, which can lead to severe symptoms and complications, especially in children. The team is investigating inhibitors of methionyl-tRNA synthetase, an enzyme crucial for protein synthesis in the parasite, to create effective treatments. By testing various compounds in laboratory settings and mouse models, they aim to identify new drugs that can overcome resistance to current therapies. The goal is to provide alternative or complementary options for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and infants suffering from giardiasis, especially those with treatment-resistant infections.

Not a fit: Patients with giardiasis who are already responding well to current treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for giardiasis, particularly for patients who do not respond to existing medications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing similar enzyme inhibitors for treating other infections, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.