Investigating a compound produced by Cryptosporidium to understand its role in infection.
Cryptosporidium's polyketide secondary metabolite: exogenous production, compound characterization and function in intracellular development.
This study is looking at a germ called Cryptosporidium that can cause diarrhea, and the researchers want to learn more about a special substance it makes, which could help us find new ways to treat infections caused by this germ.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10657338 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Cryptosporidium, a waterborne pathogen that causes diarrheal disease. The team aims to identify and characterize a specific compound produced by the parasite, which may play a crucial role in its development and interaction with hosts. By expressing a gene related to this compound in a model organism, Aspergillus, the researchers will analyze the compound's structure and function. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating Cryptosporidium infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from diarrheal diseases, particularly those caused by Cryptosporidium infections.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of gastrointestinal infections not related to Cryptosporidium may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for diarrheal diseases caused by Cryptosporidium.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of investigating polyketide metabolites is established, the specific application to Cryptosporidium is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Roberta M — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Roberta M
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.