Understanding how a parasite interacts with its insect vector
Official title: Trypanosome cAMP signaling mediates parasite-vector interaction
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11092916 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the African trypanosome parasite interacts with the tsetse fly to help find new ways to stop the spread of sleeping sickness, which affects people in certain areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | May 21, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $201,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092916 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in or traveling to regions where trypanosomiasis is endemic, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by or at risk for trypanosomiasis may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the African trypanosome parasite and the tsetse fly, which is essential for the parasite's life cycle and transmission to humans. The study focuses on how the parasite uses signaling pathways, particularly cAMP signaling, to navigate through the fly's tissues. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to identify potential targets for new treatments that could block the transmission of the disease. This could lead to innovative strategies for controlling the spread of trypanosomiasis in endemic regions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new methods to prevent the transmission of trypanosomiasis, significantly reducing the disease burden in affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting parasite-vector interactions, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in disease control.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hill, Kent L — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Hill, Kent L
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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.