How Nerves and Immune Cells Protect Against Skin Worms
Neuro-Immune mechanisms against skin-penetrating helminths
['FUNDING_R01'] · TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA · NIH-11132913
This research explores how our nerves and immune system team up to protect us from parasitic worms that enter through the skin, like those causing schistosomiasis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11132913 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many people get parasitic worm infections through their skin, but their bodies often don't fight them off well, leading to frequent re-infections. This project aims to understand how the nerves in our skin communicate with our immune system to create a strong defense against these worms. We are particularly interested in how activating skin nerves can boost the body's ability to resist infection and how a specific immune molecule, IL-33, plays a role. By identifying these key players, we hope to find new ways to help the body protect itself from these common parasites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals living in areas where parasitic worms like Schistosoma mansoni are common and cause infections.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct treatment or immediate benefit from this basic science project, which focuses on understanding disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for boosting the body's natural defenses against parasitic worm infections, potentially preventing widespread re-infection.
How similar studies have performed: While preliminary findings in mice show promise for nerve activation in resistance, the specific neuro-immune mechanisms against these helminths are still largely unknown, making this a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES
- TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA — NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HERBERT, DE'BROSKI R — TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
- Study coordinator: HERBERT, DE'BROSKI R
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.