Improving detection and treatment monitoring for Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi.
Official title: Optimization of UltraPCR for detection of and assessment of treatment outcomes in Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11133086 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving a special DNA test to better detect the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite that causes Chagas disease, helping doctors find active infections and track how well treatments are working for people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $504,703 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI185090-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133086 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chagas disease or those suspected of having an active Trypanosoma cruzi infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have been successfully treated for Chagas disease and show no signs of active infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the detection of the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which causes Chagas disease, by optimizing a sensitive DNA-based test known as UltraPCR. The study aims to improve the ability to identify active infections and monitor treatment outcomes, which is crucial for preventing serious health complications. By employing advanced techniques to analyze DNA from the parasite, the researchers hope to provide more reliable diagnostic tools that can help guide treatment decisions for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment monitoring for patients with Chagas disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing parasite detection methods, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tarleton, Rick L — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Tarleton, Rick L
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.