Targeting a key protein complex to develop new treatments for Human African Trypanosomiasis

The catalytic core of the proteasome as a drug target to treat Human African Trypanosomiasis

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10677879

This study is looking for new and safer treatments for Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) by targeting a specific part of the parasite that causes the disease, and it's designed to help people who are affected by this illness.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10677879 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a disease caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which is transmitted through tse-tse fly bites. The project aims to identify and develop new drug therapies by targeting the proteasome, a protein complex that regulates protein degradation in cells. By using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry, the researchers will analyze how this proteasome can be inhibited to effectively kill the parasite. The goal is to create more effective and less toxic treatments for patients suffering from HAT.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Human African Trypanosomiasis, particularly those in the early stages of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced stages of HAT or those who have not been diagnosed with the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer and more effective treatments for Human African Trypanosomiasis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting proteasomes for drug development, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.