Investigating how certain compounds can kill harmful parasitic worms
Official title: Nematicidal Chalcones: A Genetic Approach to Uncovering the Action Mechanism
Funded at California State University Fresno · NIH-11091563 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain natural compounds called chalcones can help kill harmful worms that affect plants, animals, and even people, with the hope of finding new treatments for these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Fresno NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fresno, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $136,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM145429-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091563 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals affected by nematode infections or those involved in agriculture dealing with nematode-related crop losses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by nematode infections or who do not work in agriculture may not receive any direct benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific compounds, known as chalcones, can effectively kill parasitic nematodes that affect both plants and animals, including humans. By using a genetic approach, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms through which these compounds operate, particularly in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. The study involves testing the effects of these compounds on nematodes and analyzing their interactions at the genetic level to identify potential new treatments for nematode infections. The ultimate goal is to develop effective nematicidal agents that can be used in agriculture and medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for nematode infections, benefiting agriculture and human health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar compounds for nematode control, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Fresno
Fresno, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calderon-Urrea, Alejandro — California State University Fresno
- Study coordinator: Calderon-Urrea, Alejandro
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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.