Investigating protein kinases in the life cycle of Trypanosoma cruzi
Official title: Barcode screening of essential protein kinases in the life cycle progression of Trypanosoma cruzi
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-10907776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at Chagas disease to find new ways to treat it by exploring how certain proteins in the parasite help it grow and survive, using cutting-edge technology to make specific changes to its genes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $243,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178573-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10907776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chagas disease, particularly those in the chronic phase of the infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute Chagas disease or those who do not have the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which affects millions in the Americas. The study aims to identify new drug targets by examining the role of protein kinases in the parasite's life cycle and how they regulate essential processes like cell division and metabolism. Using advanced CRISPR technology, researchers will create precise genetic modifications to better understand these kinases and their functions. This could lead to the development of more effective treatments for Chagas disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the discovery of new, less toxic treatments for Chagas disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting protein kinases for drug development, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chiurillo, Miguel a — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Chiurillo, Miguel a
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.