Improving testing for a parasitic infection in at-risk populations in the US
Official title: Optimizing Strongyloides Testing in an At-Risk US Population
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11136148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to improve how we test for Strongyloides stercoralis, a parasite that can be especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, like those undergoing certain treatments, and it aims to help identify those at higher risk, particularly in low-income or farming communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,843 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AI185421-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, agricultural workers, and those living in areas with poor sewage control who may be at risk for Strongyloides infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for Strongyloides stercoralis infection or those who are not immunosuppressed may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the testing methods for Strongyloides stercoralis, a parasitic infection that poses significant health risks, particularly for immunosuppressed individuals. The study aims to identify individuals at risk of this infection, especially those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds or agricultural occupations. By improving testing protocols, the research seeks to prevent severe complications associated with late diagnosis, particularly in patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatments. The approach includes analyzing seropositivity rates in various populations to better understand the prevalence and risk factors associated with the infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and treatment of Strongyloides stercoralis infection, significantly reducing the risk of severe health complications in at-risk patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a concerning prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis in at-risk populations, suggesting that improving testing methods could be a valuable advancement in public health.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Eva H — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Clark, Eva H
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.