How Toxoplasma gondii controls its exit from host cells
Regulation of host cell egress by Toxoplasma gondii
This study is looking at how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite leaves the cells it infects, focusing on the role of calcium and certain proteins, which could help us find ways to stop the infection from spreading.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11097307 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the parasite Toxoplasma gondii exits host cells, focusing on the role of calcium signaling and specific proteins that regulate this process. By studying the balance between different protein kinases, the research aims to understand how the parasite decides when to leave the host cell after infection. The methodology includes identifying key proteins and their interactions that influence the parasite's motility and egress, which are critical for its life cycle. This work could lead to insights into how to disrupt the infection process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are infected with Toxoplasma gondii or are at risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with Toxoplasma gondii or do not have a history of exposure to this parasite may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating infections caused by Toxoplasma gondii.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in understanding similar mechanisms in other apicomplexan parasites, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sibley, L. David — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Sibley, L. David
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.