Investigating new drug targets for treating lymphatic filariasis caused by Brugia malayi.
Official title: A functional characterization of Brugia malayi GABA-gated chloride channels: an unexplored target for antifilarial therapeutics
Funded at Iowa State University · NIH-10911339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a type of worm that causes lymphatic filariasis, aiming to find new ways to create better treatments for people suffering from this disease, especially in areas like Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project start | August 21, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $183,474 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI170922-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in endemic regions suffering from lymphatic filariasis, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by lymphatic filariasis or those who have already received effective treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on lymphatic filariasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms that can lead to severe swelling and disability. The team aims to explore the properties of specific channels in the Brugia malayi parasite to identify new potential drug targets. By understanding how these channels work, the researchers hope to develop more effective treatments that can overcome the limitations of current medications. This work is particularly important for improving health outcomes in affected populations in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new and more effective treatments for lymphatic filariasis, improving the quality of life for millions of affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified new drug targets for parasitic infections, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa State University
Ames, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choudhary, Shivani — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Choudhary, Shivani
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.