Exploring new treatments for a deadly brain infection caused by amoebas
Treatment of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis via Modulation of Antibody Effector Functions
This study is looking at how our immune system, especially antibodies, can help fight off brain-eating amoebas to improve survival for people with a serious condition called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11016985 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system can be harnessed to combat infections caused by brain-eating amoebas, specifically focusing on the role of antibodies. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to understand how different types of antibodies can effectively target and eliminate these parasites. The goal is to develop therapies that could potentially improve survival rates for patients suffering from primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a condition that is currently almost always fatal. The study will explore the mechanisms by which antibodies interact with immune cells to enhance the body's response to these infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary amoebic meningoencephalitis or those at high risk of infection from brain-eating amoebas.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of meningitis or those not infected with the specific amoebas targeted in this research may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve survival rates for patients with primary amoebic meningoencephalitis.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been limited successes in similar research approaches, this study aims to fill critical gaps in understanding antibody functions against these infections, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moseman, E. Ashley — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Moseman, E. Ashley
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.