How the worms that cause lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) release substances that affect the body
Molecular mechanisms controlling secretion in filarial nematode parasites
Researchers are learning how the parasites that cause lymphatic filariasis release proteins and other molecules that help them survive and change people’s immune responses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11297819 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies the human parasite Brugia malayi to find where secreted products come from and how the parasite controls their release. Scientists will examine parasite tissues, use molecular and genetic tools, and analyze secreted proteins and pathways to identify the cells and regulators involved. Much of the work uses parasite material and lab models rather than directly treating patients, but the findings are aimed at explaining how secretions affect drug action and host immunity. The goal is to translate those discoveries into targets for new treatments or better diagnostics for lymphatic filariasis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), especially adults with current or recent infection who might donate samples or participate in future related trials, would be most connected to this research.
Not a fit: People without filarial infections or with unrelated conditions are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new drug targets and diagnostic markers to help clear adult worms and improve monitoring and treatment of lymphatic filariasis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies indicate parasite secretions affect drug efficacy and immune responses, but directly mapping secretion sources and molecular regulators in B. malayi is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zamanian, Mostafa — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Zamanian, Mostafa
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.