Understanding how genes are controlled in the mitochondria of a parasite that causes diseases in Africa
TRANSCRIPTIONAL CONTROL OF MITOCHONDRIAL GENE EXPRESSION IN TRYPANOSOMES
This study is looking at how a parasite called Trypanosoma brucei, which causes serious illnesses in Africa, uses its genes to function, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the diseases it causes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877147 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of gene expression in the mitochondria of the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which is responsible for serious diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. By exploring how mitochondrial DNA is transcribed and regulated, the study aims to fill critical gaps in our understanding of this parasite's biology. The approach involves detailed molecular techniques to analyze the transcription processes of both maxicircle and minicircle genes. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating diseases caused by this parasite.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in sub-Saharan Africa who are affected by or at risk of trypanosomiasis.
Not a fit: Patients outside of sub-Saharan Africa or those not affected by trypanosomiasis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for African trypanosomiasis, improving health outcomes for affected populations.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of mitochondrial gene expression in Trypanosoma brucei are less explored, similar approaches in other parasitic studies have shown promise in identifying new therapeutic targets.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Afasizhev, Ruslan — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Afasizhev, Ruslan
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.