How Toxoplasma gondii crosses the placenta
Determining the mechanisms of Toxoplasma gondii colonization and crossing of the placental barrier
['FUNDING_R21'] · TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY · NIH-11269205
Looking at whether a parasite protein helps Toxoplasma gondii cross the placenta and infect unborn babies.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11269205 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This lab research uses a combination of a guinea pig pregnancy model and a lab-grown human placental barrier made from trophoblast stem cells to see how the parasite gets from mother to fetus. Researchers will focus on a parasite protein called TgMIF and on how it changes a human placental adhesion molecule (ICAM‑1) that may let parasites cross. They will use molecular tools, including CRISPR, to identify and test parasite proteins that permit placental crossing. The goal is to pinpoint mechanisms that cause congenital infection so future tests or treatments can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients; its findings would be most relevant to pregnant people and their babies who are at risk for Toxoplasma infection.
Not a fit: People who are not pregnant or not at risk for Toxoplasma infection are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to prevent or detect congenital toxoplasmosis and better protect unborn babies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies and preliminary data suggest parasite factors and host ICAM‑1 are involved in placental crossing, but testing TgMIF and systematically finding new parasite proteins is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES
- TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY — COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SANGARE, LAMBA OMAR — TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SANGARE, LAMBA OMAR
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.