Mapping how Giardia turns into infectious cysts
Single-cell transcriptional atlas of Giardia encystation
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11291302
Researchers will build a detailed single-cell map of how Giardia parasites change into cysts to help people who get giardiasis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11291302 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From your perspective, scientists will look at Giardia parasites one cell at a time to see which genes switch on and off as the parasite divides and when it becomes a hardy cyst. They will use single-cell RNA sequencing to create an atlas of gene activity across the parasite cell cycle and during encystation, and examine the role of cAMP and other signals in that process. This is lab-based work using parasite samples rather than a clinical drug trial, but its goal is to reveal biological pathways that could be targeted to clear infections or block spread. Findings could point to new ways to stop transmission or design treatments that prevent formation of infectious cysts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current, recurrent, or hard-to-treat giardiasis—or those willing to donate stool samples for research—would be the most relevant candidates to follow or contribute to this work.
Not a fit: People without Giardia infection or whose infection is already cured are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this lab-based project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify new biological targets or strategies to clear giardiasis infections and prevent transmission.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell RNA atlases have revealed key pathways in other microbes and parasites, but applying this approach to Giardia encystation is a novel use of the method.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PAREDEZ, ALEXANDER RICHARD — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: PAREDEZ, ALEXANDER RICHARD
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.
Conditions: Candidate Disease Gene