How the whipworm interacts with gut bacteria
Official title: Interactions between Trichuris and the gut microbiota
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10977048 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the whipworm parasite interacts with the bacteria in our gut, and how these interactions might affect the parasite's growth and reproduction, which could help us find better ways to treat whipworm infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $646,980 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977048 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with Trichuris trichiura or those at risk of infection, particularly in regions where this parasite is prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with Trichuris trichiura or those with other unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the whipworm Trichuris trichiura and the gut microbiota, focusing on how these interactions affect the parasite's life cycle and reproductive success. By studying how gut bacteria influence the hatching of Trichuris eggs, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better management of whipworm infections. The approach includes using model organisms like C. elegans to identify specific bacterial gene products that play a role in these processes. This could provide insights into new treatment strategies for infections caused by this parasite.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for whipworm infections, potentially reducing the burden of disease for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the interactions between parasites and gut microbiota can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cadwell, Ken Hashigiwa — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Cadwell, Ken Hashigiwa
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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.