How a parasite survives in the bloodstream by evading the immune system
Official title: Esophageal gland-mediated immune evasion by the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10913621 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Schistosoma mansoni parasite, which causes schistosomiasis, manages to hide from our immune system while living in our blood, focusing on a special part of the parasite that might help it fight off our body's defenses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 24, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $388,452 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175079-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913621 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schistosomiasis or those at high risk of infection due to exposure to contaminated water.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have schistosomiasis or are not at risk of infection are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni, which causes schistosomiasis, survives in the bloodstream despite the host's immune defenses. The focus is on the esophageal gland of the parasite, which may play a crucial role in neutralizing immune components that the parasite ingests. By examining the specific proteins produced by the esophageal gland, the research aims to understand how these factors contribute to the parasite's ability to evade the immune system and thrive within the host. This could involve identifying the types of cells and genes present in the esophageal gland and their functions in immune evasion.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive measures for schistosomiasis, improving health outcomes for millions affected by this disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune evasion mechanisms in other parasites, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Jayhun — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lee, Jayhun
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.