How whipworm and gut bacteria interact
Interactions between Trichuris and the gut microbiota
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11222704
Researchers are examining how the human whipworm and the bacteria in the gut affect each other's ability to hatch, grow, and reproduce.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11222704 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at the relationship between Trichuris (whipworm) infections and the gut microbiome by comparing bacterial communities from infected hosts and laboratory models. Scientists will identify which bacteria help whipworm eggs hatch and test how specific bacterial genes influence worm reproduction. They use mouse models and a genetic screen in the roundworm C. elegans to find conserved bacterial factors, and analyze human-associated bacterial samples to link findings to people. The work combines lab experiments, genetic screening of bacteria, and analysis of intestinal bacterial communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with current or recent whipworm (Trichuris) infection, people at high risk of exposure, or volunteers able to provide stool samples and travel to or coordinate with the study center.
Not a fit: People without exposure to whipworm or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefit because this is laboratory-focused, early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to prevent or reduce whipworm infection by targeting gut bacteria or their products to block egg hatching or lower worm reproductive success.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown gut bacteria can be required for Trichuris egg hatching and that infection alters the microbiome, but pinpointing specific bacterial genes that drive these effects is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CADWELL, KEN HASHIGIWA — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: CADWELL, KEN HASHIGIWA
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.