Learning how malaria and toxoplasmosis parasites communicate inside their cells
Understanding inter-organellar communication in apicomplexan parasites
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · NIH-11137015
This project aims to understand how the tiny parts inside parasites that cause diseases like malaria and toxoplasmosis talk to each other, which could help us find new ways to fight them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137015 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Inside every cell, including those of parasites, different tiny compartments need to communicate to function properly. This communication happens at special spots where these compartments touch, allowing them to exchange important materials. For parasites that cause diseases like malaria and toxoplasmosis, this ability to adapt and get nutrients from different environments is key to their survival and spread. By learning how these specific parasites manage their internal communication, we hope to uncover their weaknesses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit anyone at risk for or suffering from parasitic infections caused by apicomplexans.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by apicomplexan parasites, such as those causing malaria or toxoplasmosis, would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this fundamental understanding could lead to the discovery of new targets for medicines to treat or prevent parasitic infections like malaria and toxoplasmosis.
How similar studies have performed: While much is known about cell communication in other organisms, this work explores these processes in apicomplexan parasites, representing a novel area of investigation for these specific disease agents.
Where this research is happening
ATHENS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA — ATHENS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUET, DIEGO — UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
- Study coordinator: HUET, DIEGO
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 below.