Understanding how neuropeptides regulate the immune response to helminth infections.
Neuropeptide-mediated regulation of antihelminth immunity
This study is looking at how our immune system reacts to worms like hookworms that can make people sick, especially kids, and it hopes to find ways to boost our body's defenses while keeping any harmful side effects in check.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911157 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system responds to helminth parasites, such as hookworms, which affect millions of people globally. It focuses on the balance between promoting necessary inflammation to fight these infections and controlling that inflammation to prevent damage to the body. By studying the role of specific immune cells and neuropeptides, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance protective immunity while minimizing harmful effects. The findings could lead to new strategies for treating infections in children and improving overall immune health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk of or currently infected with helminth parasites.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults or do not have helminth infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for helminth infections, particularly in young children who are most vulnerable.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to helminth infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Siracusa, Mark Christopher — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Siracusa, Mark Christopher
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.