Understanding heart inflammation and fibrosis caused by Chagas disease.
Mechanisms of myocarditis and progressive cardiac fibrosis in chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection.
['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11041072
This study is looking at how a long-term infection with a parasite can cause heart problems in people with Chronic Chagasic Cardiomyopathy, and it aims to find better treatments, including a new type of therapy that helps boost the immune system.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11041072 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic infection with the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi leads to heart inflammation and progressive fibrosis, resulting in a condition known as Chronic Chagasic Cardiomyopathy (CCC). The study aims to identify the underlying mechanisms of inflammation and fibrosis in affected patients, as well as to explore new therapeutic strategies, including an immunotherapy that combines a specific antigen from the parasite with an adjuvant to enhance immune response. By analyzing the immune responses and disease markers in patients, the research seeks to develop more effective treatments for CCC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chagas disease who are experiencing chronic cardiac symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of Chagas disease or those who do not exhibit cardiac symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from Chagas disease and its associated cardiac complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar immunotherapy approaches in other fibrotic conditions, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JONES, KATHRYN MARIE — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: JONES, KATHRYN MARIE
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.