Understanding how a drug works against a common parasitic infection.

Resolving the properties of schistosome TRPMPZQ, the target of the anthelmintic drug praziquantel

['FUNDING_R01'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-11164229

This study is looking at how the drug praziquantel works to treat schistosomiasis, a disease that affects millions of people, by focusing on a specific part of the parasite that the drug targets, with the goal of finding better treatments in the future.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11164229 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection affecting over 250 million people globally, and aims to uncover the molecular target of the drug praziquantel (PZQ), which is currently the only treatment available. The researchers have identified a specific ion channel in the parasite, known as TRPMPZQ, that is crucial for the drug's effectiveness. By understanding how this target works, the study hopes to pave the way for the development of improved therapies and better management of drug resistance. This research could lead to more effective treatments for those suffering from schistosomiasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schistosomiasis, particularly those who may not respond well to current treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have schistosomiasis or those who are not affected by parasitic infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new and more effective treatments for schistosomiasis, improving health outcomes for millions of affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully identified drug targets in other parasitic infections, suggesting that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.