Exploring bitter melon as a treatment for parasitic worm infections
Official title: Potential of the bitter melon Momordica charantia as a source of anthelmintics
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-10765700 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bitter melon, a plant often used in traditional medicine, might help fight hookworm infections by stopping the worms from feeding and even killing them, with the goal of creating new oral treatments that could be especially helpful for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | January 18, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,652 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176230-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10765700 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older, particularly those who are elderly or have been diagnosed with parasitic nematode infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with parasitic nematodes or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of bitter melon, a plant traditionally used in medicine, to treat infections caused by parasitic nematodes, particularly hookworms. The study focuses on how extracts from bitter melon can inhibit the feeding and kill different stages of these worms in laboratory settings. By identifying the active compounds in bitter melon, the research aims to develop new oral medications that could provide an effective alternative to current treatments, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly. The research will involve laboratory assays to evaluate the effectiveness of these extracts against hookworm larvae and adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for millions suffering from parasitic worm infections, particularly in developing countries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with plant-based treatments for parasitic infections, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hawdon, John M — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Hawdon, John M
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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.