How iron levels affect chronic Toxoplasma gondii infections and immunity
Role of Available Iron in Development of Chronic Toxoplasma gondii and Immunity
This study is looking at how the amount of iron in the body affects the way a common parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, causes long-lasting infections, especially in the brain and heart, and it aims to find out if changing iron levels can help improve the immune response and lead to better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wyoming NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Laramie, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10496565 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of available iron in the development of chronic infections caused by Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can severely impact health, particularly in the brain and heart. The study aims to understand how variations in iron levels in the host influence the spread of the parasite and the immune response, specifically focusing on CD8+ T cells. By manipulating iron availability in animal models, researchers will assess its effects on parasite burden and immune function, providing insights that could lead to new treatment strategies for chronic infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic Toxoplasma gondii infections or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Toxoplasma gondii infections or related immune response issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for controlling chronic Toxoplasma gondii infections, improving health outcomes for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of manipulating iron levels in relation to T. gondii infections is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the role of nutrients in infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
Laramie, United States
- University of Wyoming — Laramie, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gigley, Jason — University of Wyoming
- Study coordinator: Gigley, Jason
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.