Understanding how certain genes affect susceptibility to a common parasite.
Official title: Defining novel susceptibility mechanisms to low virulence Toxoplasma gondii strains using the Collaborative Cross and parasite genetics
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11058006 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes might affect how sick mice get from a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which can also make people ill, to help us understand why some people get sicker than others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | November 8, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $269,054 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI182890-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058006 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a known history of Toxoplasma gondii infection or those at high risk of exposure to the parasite.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by Toxoplasma gondii or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic factors influence the susceptibility of mice to Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can cause illness in humans. By using a diverse panel of genetically distinct mice, the study aims to identify specific genes that may determine how severely an infection affects the host. The researchers will employ advanced genetic mapping techniques and analyze the interactions between the host's immune response and the parasite's characteristics. This work could provide insights into the genetic basis of disease severity and resistance mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for infections caused by Toxoplasma gondii in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to susceptibility to other infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jensen, Kirk David Christian — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Jensen, Kirk David Christian
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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.