Understanding how genetics affect drug responses in a poultry model of a common parasitic infection.
Official title: Investigating the genetics and genomics of antiparasitic drug responses in a poultry model of ascariasis
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11103398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in the Ascaris worm might make it harder for common antiparasitic medicines, like albendazole, to work, using chickens to help find answers that could lead to better treatments for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $204,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180805-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals suffering from ascariasis or related parasitic infections, particularly in regions where benzimidazole resistance is a concern.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have ascariasis or are not affected by parasitic infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that influence how the parasitic infection Ascaris lumbricoides responds to antiparasitic drugs, particularly benzimidazoles like albendazole. By using a poultry model, the study aims to identify genetic variations that may contribute to drug resistance, which is a growing concern in treating these infections. The researchers will analyze the genetic makeup of the parasites and their responses to treatment, providing insights that could lead to more effective therapies. This work is crucial as it addresses the potential for drug resistance that could undermine current treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for parasitic infections, potentially reducing the burden of disease in affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on drug resistance in other parasitic models, this approach using a poultry model for Ascaris lumbricoides is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andersen, Erik Christian — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Andersen, Erik Christian
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.