Understanding how antibodies relate to hookworm infections
Official title: Defining serologic correlates of human hookworm infection
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10890058 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain antibodies in the blood relate to hookworm infections, which are common in sub-Saharan Africa and can cause health problems like anemia and malnutrition, to help find better ways to treat and manage these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $209,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171842-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890058 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in sub-Saharan Africa who are at risk of or currently infected with hookworm.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in endemic areas or who are not infected with hookworm may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between specific antibodies in the blood and hookworm infections, which are common in sub-Saharan Africa and can lead to serious health issues like anemia and malnutrition. By analyzing serum samples from individuals in Ghana, the study aims to identify which antibodies are linked to active infections and how these can inform better treatment strategies. The research focuses on understanding the immune response to hookworm proteins, particularly allergens, to improve infection control methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for hookworm infections, ultimately reducing anemia and malnutrition in affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to parasitic infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cappello, Michael — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Cappello, Michael
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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.