Investigating how polyphosphate affects Toxoplasma gondii infections
Official title: The role of polyphosphate in Toxoplasma gondii
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10887593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special molecule in the Toxoplasma gondii parasite helps it make people sick, with the hope of finding new ways to treat infections caused by this parasite.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | July 13, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $236,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI172215-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised or at risk of severe Toxoplasma gondii infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not immunocompromised and do not have Toxoplasma gondii infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of polyphosphate, a molecule found in Toxoplasma gondii, in the parasite's ability to cause disease. The study aims to explore how polyphosphate contributes to the parasite's virulence and pathogenicity, particularly in the context of host immune responses. By examining the mechanisms of polyphosphate in the infection cycle, the research seeks to uncover new insights that could lead to better treatment strategies for infections caused by T. gondii.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Toxoplasma gondii infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of polyphosphate in other biological processes has been studied, this specific investigation into its function in Toxoplasma gondii is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moreno, Silvia N — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Moreno, Silvia N
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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.