Understanding how Giardia attaches to the intestine
Official title: Biophysical and genetic approaches to uncover ventral disc contractile attachment mechanisms in Giardia
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11107373 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Giardia parasite sticks to the intestines, which helps it cause problems like diarrhea, and it uses special tools to see how this happens and what changes when the parasite's genes are altered.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $696,544 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI189927-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11107373 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Giardia infections or are at risk of such infections, particularly those experiencing acute or chronic diarrhea.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Giardia infections or related gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Giardia lamblia parasite attaches to the intestinal lining, which is crucial for its survival and ability to cause disease. By using advanced imaging techniques and genetic tools, the study aims to uncover the biophysical forces generated by the parasite's unique ventral disc structure during attachment. This could help in understanding how Giardia damages the intestinal cells and leads to symptoms like diarrhea. The research employs innovative methods to manipulate the parasite's genes and observe the effects on its attachment capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive measures for infections caused by Giardia, potentially reducing the incidence of diarrheal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding similar attachment mechanisms in other parasites, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dawson, Scott C — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Dawson, Scott C
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.