Genetic clues to snail and parasite compatibility in schistosomiasis
Official title: Genetic mechanisms of snail/schistosome compatibility
Funded at Oregon State University · NIH-11323449 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are exploring the genes that control how the snail host and the parasite Schistosoma mansoni interact, with the goal of finding new ways to block transmission to people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Corvallis, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2019 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $371,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI143991-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11323449 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable — this is a basic science study in snails and parasites, not a patient-facing trial.
✕Less likely to help
There is no direct participation for patients in this basic science grant.
What this research studies
This project looks for specific snail and parasite genes that determine whether infection can occur, focusing on Biomphalaria snails like the Bg BS90 strain and Schistosoma mansoni. Researchers will study how snail immune responses and parasite factors connect at the molecular level, aiming to uncover targets for disrupting transmission. The work involves genetic mapping, identifying candidate genes, and testing how those genes influence compatibility, with the hope of informing new control strategies beyond drugs. The findings could lead to safer, snail-focused interventions that reduce the spread of schistosomiasis in affected communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal new targets to block transmission at the snail stage, contributing to safer, long-term control of schistosomiasis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has identified several candidate genes and regions; this project builds on that foundation to pursue causal mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon State University
Corvallis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blouin, Michael Scott — Oregon State University
- Study coordinator: Blouin, Michael Scott
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.