Understanding drug resistance in schistosomes
Characterisation of drug resistance in field-collected schistosomes
['FUNDING_R01'] · KENYATTA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11077869
This study is looking into how some parasitic worms that cause schistosomiasis might become resistant to the common treatment drug praziquantel, by collecting samples from infected people in Western Kenya, so we can better understand why some treatments don’t work for everyone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | KENYATTA UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NAIROBI, KENYA) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11077869 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how schistosomes, a type of parasitic worm, may develop resistance to the drug praziquantel (PZQ), which is commonly used to treat schistosomiasis. By collecting schistosomes from infected patients in Western Kenya, the researchers aim to identify genetic factors that contribute to this resistance. The study involves breeding snails and hamsters to produce large populations of schistosomes for testing. This approach will help determine if drug resistance is a reason for treatment failures in certain communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in Western Kenya who are infected with schistosomiasis and have not responded to praziquantel treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with schistosomiasis or those who have not received praziquantel treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for schistosomiasis, potentially reducing infection rates and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that drug resistance in schistosomes is a growing concern, and this study builds on existing knowledge to explore this issue further.
Where this research is happening
NAIROBI, KENYA
- KENYATTA UNIVERSITY — NAIROBI, KENYA (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NDOMBI, ERIC MAKUTO — KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: NDOMBI, ERIC MAKUTO
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.