How a common parasite affects gene expression and DNA changes in the body
Official title: DNA methylation, 3D genome organization and gene expression during Trichomonas vaginalis: host interaction
Funded at Institute/research/biotechnology Fdn · NIH-11041165 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite affects our body's genes and immune system when it infects us, with the hope of finding better ways to treat infections caused by this parasite.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Institute/research/biotechnology Fdn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Martin, Argentina) |
| Project start | March 7, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $131,760 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI160387-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041165 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Trichomonas vaginalis infections or are at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with Trichomonas vaginalis or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interaction between the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite and the human host, focusing on how the parasite alters gene expression and DNA methylation patterns. By examining the 3D organization of the genome, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate these changes during infection. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze DNA modifications and their impact on the host's immune response and overall health. Understanding these interactions could lead to better management of infections caused by this parasite.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections caused by Trichomonas vaginalis and reduce the risk of severe complications such as infertility and increased susceptibility to HIV.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of examining 6mA DNA methylation in Trichomonas vaginalis is novel, similar studies in other pathogens have shown promising results in understanding host-pathogen interactions.
Where this research is happening
-
Institute/research/biotechnology Fdn
San Martin, Argentina Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Miguel, Natalia — Institute/research/biotechnology Fdn
- Study coordinator: De Miguel, Natalia
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Antibody dynamics to improve Chagas disease diagnostics and prognosis
A researcher in Argentina is studying how antibody responses to defined parts of the parasite change over time to identify better diagnostic and prognosis markers for Chagas disease.
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Unraveling how Trypanosoma cruzi traffics proteins in Chagas disease
Researchers are studying how the parasite behind Chagas disease moves proteins inside its cells to understand how it causes illness and how to stop it.
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How Trichomonas vaginalis changes its DNA and gene activity
Researchers are looking at how the common vaginal parasite Trichomonas vaginalis changes its DNA tags, 3D genome folding, and gene activity during infection to better understand infections in people.
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.