Understanding how Cryptosporidium controls its genes
Official title: Gene regulation in Cryptosporidium
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11117096 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Cryptosporidium germ, which causes diarrhea especially in babies and people with weak immune systems, manages to survive by using resources from its host, and it hopes to find new ways to understand and treat this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,314 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180871-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117096 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and immunocompromised individuals who are at higher risk of Cryptosporidium infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Cryptosporidium infections or are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the gene regulation mechanisms of Cryptosporidium, a pathogen that causes diarrhea, particularly in vulnerable populations like infants and immunocompromised individuals. The study focuses on how this organism, which cannot synthesize essential building blocks for its DNA and RNA, relies on its host for survival and replication. By employing advanced sequencing techniques, the researchers aim to uncover the complexities of gene expression and regulation in Cryptosporidium, which could lead to new insights into its biology and potential treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for infections caused by Cryptosporidium.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying polycistronic transcription in Cryptosporidium is novel, similar research in other pathogens has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kissinger, Jessica C — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kissinger, Jessica C
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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.