Understanding how genetic differences affect susceptibility to Babesia microti infection
Official title: Host heterogeneity affects susceptibility of Babesia microti infection using vector-mediated transmission
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11139926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different genes in mice might affect their chances of getting sick from a parasite that causes babesiosis, especially when spread by ticks, and it hopes to find out which traits could help protect against serious illness, while also considering how age and immune health play a role.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $250,573 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI185273-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with varying genetic backgrounds who are at risk for babesiosis, especially the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for babesiosis or who do not have genetic predispositions related to the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations in hosts influence their susceptibility to Babesia microti, a parasite that causes babesiosis, particularly through natural tick transmission. By using a special mouse model, the study aims to identify specific genetic traits that may protect against severe infections. The research will also explore the role of age and immune status in the severity of the disease. This approach seeks to fill knowledge gaps regarding the immune response and genetic factors involved in babesiosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for babesiosis, particularly in vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have gone: While research on Babesia microti has been conducted, this specific approach using genetic mapping in a natural transmission model is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tufts, Danielle M — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Tufts, Danielle M
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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.