Genes that allow Cryptosporidium to infect people
Genetic Analysis of Cryptosporidium
['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11314514
This work looks at the parasite's genes to learn why some Cryptosporidium strains infect infants and people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11314514 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists are growing different Cryptosporidium strains and crossing them to produce offspring, then comparing the genetics of those offspring to find regions linked to host preference and persistence. They use genetic mapping (bulk segregant analysis), reverse genetics to change candidate genes, and laboratory tests to see how those changes affect the parasite's ability to infect. The project focuses on strains that spread through water, infect infants, or cause severe disease in people with HIV. Results aim to reveal how the parasite adapts to humans and animal hosts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cryptosporidiosis—especially infants, young children, and people with weakened immune systems such as advanced HIV—are the population most likely to benefit from this research.
Not a fit: People with diarrheal illnesses caused by non-infectious conditions or who have never been exposed to Cryptosporidium are unlikely to get direct benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to new drug targets, vaccines, or better diagnostics to prevent and treat cryptosporidiosis, especially in infants and people with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Genetic mapping and reverse genetics have worked well in other parasites, but applying these forward-genetics approaches to Cryptosporidium is relatively new and partly untested.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STRIEPEN, BORIS — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: STRIEPEN, BORIS
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome