How parasites change the immune response in humans

Molecular mayhem: Immune modulation and eicosanoid signaling during infection

NIH-funded research University of California Riverside · NIH-10874691

This study looks at how tiny worms called parasitic nematodes can change how our immune system works when they infect us, with the goal of finding new ways to help our bodies fight off infections better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Riverside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874691 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how parasitic nematodes can alter the immune response of their human hosts. By studying the proteins and small molecules released by these parasites during infection, the research aims to uncover how they evade or suppress the immune system. The approach includes identifying key genetic pathways involved in lipid-mediated immune signaling and characterizing the interactions between parasite-derived molecules and host cells. This could lead to new insights into immune modulation and potential therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases or conditions related to immune dysregulation.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by immune system issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases by harnessing the mechanisms used by parasites to manipulate the immune system.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding host-parasite interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Riverside, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune DiseasesCeliac DiseaseCoeliac DiseaseCrohn disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.