How hosts and parasites evolve together
Co-evolutionary Genetics of Host-Parasite Interactions
Researchers look at how long-term battles between hosts and parasites changed immune system genes and might affect autoimmune disease risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11260867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work uses lab and animal model systems to recreate host–parasite co-evolution and identify the genes involved. The team will compare those genes with regions of the human genome linked to autoimmune diseases to find overlaps. They will build experimental systems to test specific genetic interactions that could drive immune-related harm or protection. Results aim to connect basic evolutionary processes to human autoimmunity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune conditions, those with a family history of autoimmunity, or volunteers willing to provide genetic samples or health information would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct personal medical benefits should not expect this basic research to provide immediate care changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could reveal genetic causes of autoimmune diseases and point to new targets for prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Related research has shown that infections and parasites shape immune genes and has led to major discoveries, but applying co-evolutionary genetics directly to autoimmune risk is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whiteman, Noah K — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Whiteman, Noah K
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.