Understanding how the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite changes shape during its life cycle
Official title: Defining the molecular mediators of cell morphogenesis in Trypanosoma cruzi
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10998496 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Chagas' disease parasite changes its shape to survive and infect people, which could help us find better ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI181488-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998496 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in or originating from regions where Chagas' disease is prevalent, particularly those who may be at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Chagas' disease or are not at risk of infection from Trypanosoma cruzi may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the life cycle of the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which causes Chagas' disease, focusing on how it changes its shape and structure to survive in different environments. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and microscopy, the researchers aim to identify the molecular markers that drive these changes, particularly during a critical phase known as metacyclogenesis. This phase is essential for the parasite's ability to infect mammalian hosts. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for Chagas' disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for treating Chagas' disease, potentially improving outcomes for millions at risk.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the biology of Trypanosoma cruzi, but this specific approach using transcriptomics and microscopy during metacyclogenesis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keroack, Caroline Dana — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Keroack, Caroline Dana
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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.