Exploring how invertebrates and their microbes affect health and disease
Insectary for Scientific Training and Advances in Research (InSTAR) Core
This study is looking at how tiny organisms like mosquitoes and fruit flies interact with the germs living in and around them, to learn more about how these germs might affect their growth and health, which could help us understand more about human health too.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890815 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on using invertebrate models, such as mosquitoes and Hawaiian Drosophila, to study the interactions between these organisms and their microbial communities. By understanding how these microbial symbionts influence host development, metabolism, and immune function, the research aims to generate insights that could inform human health. The project also aims to develop a core facility at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa to support this research, providing critical infrastructure for studying the environmental microbiome. This includes working in a specialized laboratory space designed for potentially dangerous insects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals interested in the effects of microbial interactions on health, particularly those affected by vector-borne diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by vector-borne diseases or have no interest in microbial health interactions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing pest species and disease vectors, ultimately enhancing public health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using invertebrate models to study microbial interactions, indicating that this approach is promising and has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Honolulu, United States
- University of Hawaii at Manoa — Honolulu, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Couvillon, Patricia a — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Couvillon, Patricia 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.