Investigating how parasitic flatworms respond to a key treatment for schistosomiasis
Official title: Functional interrogation of parasitic flatworm TRPM channels to identify novel anthelmintics
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11061194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the drug praziquantel works to fight off parasitic flatworms that cause schistosomiasis, with the goal of finding better treatments for people who are struggling with these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI183573-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061194 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from schistosomiasis or other parasitic infections caused by flatworms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-parasitic conditions or those not affected by flatworm infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the drug praziquantel (PZQ) works against parasitic flatworms, particularly those causing schistosomiasis, which affects millions globally. The study aims to identify the molecular target of PZQ in these parasites, specifically a calcium-permeable ion channel known as TRPMPZQ. By examining the differences in sensitivity to PZQ among various flatworm species, the research seeks to develop new anthelmintic treatments that could be more effective against resistant strains. Patients may benefit from improved therapies for parasitic infections that currently lack effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new and more effective treatments for parasitic infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully identified molecular targets for existing treatments, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rohr, Claudia M — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Rohr, Claudia 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.