Tracking genetic differences in Toxoplasma cysts in the brain during treatment.
Genetic barcoding to track Toxoplasma cyst heterogeneity during brain colonization, reactivation, and drug treatment.
This study is looking at how certain brain infections caused by Toxoplasma cysts behave when AIDS patients are treated with medication, to help find better drugs that can completely get rid of these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10664008 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Toxoplasma cysts, which can cause severe brain infections in AIDS patients, behave during drug treatment and reactivation. By using genetically barcoded parasites, the study aims to understand the differences between individual cysts and their responses to treatment. This approach allows researchers to track the dynamics of these cysts within the brain, providing insights into why current medications fail to eliminate them completely. The goal is to identify new drug candidates that can effectively target these cysts and improve treatment outcomes for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are AIDS patients who are experiencing or at risk of Toxoplasma encephalitis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have AIDS or are not infected with Toxoplasma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for Toxoplasma infections in AIDS patients, potentially reducing the incidence of severe neurological complications.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using genetic barcoding is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other infectious disease research, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saeij, Jeroen — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Saeij, Jeroen
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.