Investigating how RNA modifications affect the immune response to a common intestinal parasite in children with AIDS
Official title: m6A methylation of IRGM transcripts in epithelial-Cryptosporidium interactions
Funded at Rush University Medical Center · NIH-11035212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special change in RNA affects how our gut cells respond to a parasite that causes bad diarrhea, especially in kids and people with weakened immune systems, to find new ways to help treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 14, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,575 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI177188-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035212 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children under 11 years old and individuals with AIDS who are at risk of Cryptosporidium infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by AIDS or do not have Cryptosporidium infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific RNA modification, known as m6A methylation, influences the immune response of intestinal cells to Cryptosporidium, a parasite that causes severe diarrhea, particularly in children and AIDS patients. The study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms by which these RNA modifications regulate the production of immune-related proteins that help fight the infection. By examining how these processes change during infection, the research seeks to identify potential targets for improving treatment strategies against this opportunistic pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the immune response in children and AIDS patients suffering from Cryptosporidium infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA modifications and their role in immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xian-Ming — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xian-Ming
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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.