Improving the effectiveness of a new drug for treating filarial infections.

Heteromers and L-type calcium channels: Increasing the potency of emodepside in filarial nematode model, Brugia malayi

NIH-funded research Creighton University · NIH-11057243

This study is looking at how to make a promising drug called emodepside even better for treating infections caused by a type of worm that leads to lymphatic filariasis, a condition that affects many people around the world.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCreighton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057243 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the potency of emodepside, a promising drug for treating filarial nematode infections, particularly Brugia malayi. The study aims to understand how emodepside interacts with specific calcium channels in nematodes, which could lead to more effective treatments. By using a model organism, C. elegans, researchers will investigate the drug's pharmacological effects and how it can be optimized for better efficacy against adult filarial parasites. This could potentially lead to significant advancements in the treatment of lymphatic filariasis, which affects millions worldwide.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from lymphatic filariasis or related filarial infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have filarial infections or those who are not affected by lymphatic filariasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for filarial infections, improving health outcomes for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in enhancing drug efficacy for similar parasitic infections, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.