How Cryptosporidium genes determine which animals and people it infects
Genetic Basis of Host Infectivity by Cryptosporidium
Researchers are learning how genetic differences in Cryptosporidium change its ability to infect farm animals and people, especially infants and people with weak immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11257288 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are comparing genomes from high- and low-virulence C. parvum to find genetic changes tied to more severe infections. They will test candidate genes using lab-grown human intestinal cells made from stem cells and infection experiments in mice. The team uses whole genome sequencing and genetic tools like CRISPR to change parasite genes and watch how infections differ. Results aim to reveal why some parasite types spread between animals and people and cause worse illness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most directly connected to this work include infants, people with weakened immune systems, and individuals exposed to farm animals who get cryptosporidiosis.
Not a fit: People with mild, self-limited diarrhea, infections caused by non-Cryptosporidium pathogens, or those not exposed to zoonotic strains may not see direct benefit from this research right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or treat severe cryptosporidiosis by targeting the parasite genes that make infections worse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genome studies identified genetic differences between parasite strains and a new stem-cell gut model now allows full parasite growth, so this functional genetic approach is promising though not yet proven for leading to treatments.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sibley, L. David — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Sibley, L. David
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.