Understanding how a parasite causes African sleeping sickness
Control of VSG pre-mRNA processing in infectious Trypanosoma brucei
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10896977
This study is looking at how the parasite that causes African sleeping sickness can hide from our immune system, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease and help those affected.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10896977 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, which is responsible for African sleeping sickness in humans and nagana in cattle. The project aims to explore the mechanisms that allow this parasite to evade the immune system and persist in the host, focusing on the processing of variant surface glycoproteins (VSGs) that help the parasite survive. By studying the life cycle of T. brucei and its interactions with both mammalian hosts and tsetse flies, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for new treatments. This could lead to a better understanding of the disease and the development of more effective therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with African sleeping sickness or those living in regions where the disease is endemic.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of trypanosomiasis or those not affected by the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for African sleeping sickness, improving patient outcomes and potentially reducing the disease's prevalence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the biology of T. brucei, but this specific approach to VSG processing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TSCHUDI, CHRISTIAN — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: TSCHUDI, CHRISTIAN
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.