Understanding how temperature affects parasitic worms that infect humans
Dissecting the thermosensory biology of soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes
This study is looking at how certain parasites that can infect people use temperature to find their hosts, with the hope of discovering new ways to treat these infections that affect over a billion people worldwide.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10947143 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the biology of soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes, which are responsible for infections in over a billion people worldwide. The study focuses on how these parasites use temperature cues to locate and infect their hosts, aiming to uncover the physiological and sensory adaptations that facilitate this process. By utilizing a model organism, Strongyloides stercoralis, the research combines techniques from parasitology, neuroscience, genetics, and molecular biology to explore these adaptations. The ultimate goal is to identify potential new therapeutic targets for treating infections caused by these parasites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are infected with soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes or are at high risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes or do not have a history of exposure to these parasites may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel treatments for infections caused by parasitic nematodes, improving health outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown success in understanding parasitic behaviors and developing treatments through similar biological investigations.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bryant, Astra Shamgar — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Bryant, Astra Shamgar
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.