Understanding how the Toxoplasma parasite takes over cells
Mechanisms and functions of host organelle usurpation by intravacuolar Toxoplasma
This research looks at how the Toxoplasma parasite, which can cause serious infections, gets the nutrients it needs from our cells to survive and multiply.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088246 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The Toxoplasma parasite lives inside our cells within a special compartment, and to grow, it needs fats (lipids) from our cells. This project explores two ways the parasite might be stealing these fats without directly connecting with our cell's internal parts. First, it examines how the parasite might capture tiny sacs that move fats around inside our cells. Second, it investigates how the parasite might draw our cell's fat-storing structures very close to its own compartment to take what it needs. By uncovering these methods, we hope to better understand how this parasite thrives.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies based on this work might seek individuals with Toxoplasma infections or related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by Toxoplasma gondii infection or related conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how Toxoplasma survives inside cells could help us find new ways to stop this parasite and treat infections, especially in vulnerable patients like those with AIDS/HIV.
How similar studies have performed: While the general concept of parasites subverting host pathways is known, this specific mechanism of Toxoplasma acquiring lipids without direct fusion represents a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coppens, Isabelle — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Coppens, Isabelle
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.