Finding new treatments for Acanthamoeba eye infections using machine learning
A machine learning-based screen of marine natural products to identify new leads for the treatment of Acanthamoeba eye infection
This study is looking for new treatments for Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful eye infection that can affect people who wear contact lenses, by using smart technology to find natural products that can help fight the infection and prevent it from coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10669249 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new therapies for Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful eye infection that can lead to blindness, particularly in contact lens wearers. The study utilizes machine learning techniques to enhance the screening process for marine natural products that may effectively target both stages of the Acanthamoeba parasite. By automating and miniaturizing the testing of potential treatments, the researchers aim to identify compounds that can eliminate both the trophozoite and cyst forms of the parasite, addressing a critical gap in current treatment options. Patients may benefit from more effective therapies that reduce the risk of infection recurrence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who wear contact lenses and are at risk for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not wear contact lenses or have not been diagnosed with Acanthamoeba keratitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for Acanthamoeba eye infections, potentially preventing blindness.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of machine learning in drug discovery is gaining traction, this specific approach to targeting Acanthamoeba infections is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Debnath, Anjan — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Debnath, Anjan
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.