Investigating how fexinidazole resistance works in treating infections.
Official title: Fexinidazole survival genes implicate a novel redox-based mechanism in drug resistance
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11230560 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some parasites become resistant to fexinidazole, a medicine used to treat infections like African sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, and Leishmaniasis, so that we can find better ways to help patients get the treatment they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $199,375 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AI174051-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11230560 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, or Leishmaniasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections not caused by the parasites targeted by fexinidazole may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind drug resistance to fexinidazole, a medication used to treat infections caused by certain parasites. By studying the genetic factors that contribute to resistance, the researchers aim to improve the effectiveness of fexinidazole against diseases like African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, and Leishmaniasis. The approach involves using advanced genetic techniques to identify survival genes in the parasites, which could lead to better treatment strategies for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of fexinidazole, leading to better treatment outcomes for patients with parasitic infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding drug resistance mechanisms in similar treatments, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hovel-Miner, Galadriel Astra — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Hovel-Miner, Galadriel Astra
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.