How a parasite survives in the bloodstream by evading the immune system
Esophageal gland-mediated immune evasion by the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-11055734
This study is looking at how the Schistosoma mansoni parasite, which causes schistosomiasis, hides from our immune system while living in our blood, focusing on a special part of the parasite that might help it stay safe, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11055734 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni, which causes schistosomiasis, manages to evade the immune system while living in the bloodstream. The focus is on the esophageal gland of the parasite, which may play a crucial role in neutralizing immune components that could harm it. By examining the specific proteins produced by this gland, researchers aim to understand how these factors contribute to the parasite's survival and immune evasion. This work could lead to new insights into the biology of the parasite and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schistosomiasis or those at high risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have schistosomiasis or are not at risk of infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for schistosomiasis, potentially improving outcomes for millions of affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: 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
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- 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 below.