Investigating calcium-related genes in the Chagas disease parasite.
Large-scale CRISPR screening of essential calcium-related genes in the human parasite Tr. cruzi
This study is looking for new ways to treat Chagas disease by finding proteins that the parasite needs to survive but that humans don’t have, which could lead to safer and more effective treatments for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10480891 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Chagas disease, a tropical illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which affects millions globally. The team aims to identify essential calcium-related proteins that are crucial for the parasite's survival but absent in human cells. By using large-scale CRISPR screening, they will explore metabolic pathways that could serve as targets for new, non-toxic treatments. This approach seeks to develop effective therapies for chronic Chagas disease patients who currently have limited treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who are infected with Trypanosoma cruzi and are experiencing chronic Chagas disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with Chagas disease or those who have already received effective treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, effective treatments for Chagas disease, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting calcium-related pathways in parasites is innovative, similar research has shown promise in identifying new therapeutic targets in other parasitic infections.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lander, Noelia — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Lander, Noelia
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.