Understanding how Toxoplasma gondii develops sexually in lab models
Mechanistic analysis of Toxoplasma gondii sexual development in tissue culture and mouse models
This study is looking at how a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which can make people with weak immune systems very sick, develops and how certain fatty acids from cat intestines might affect it, all while using mice and lab-grown tissues instead of cats for research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10903972 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the sexual development of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which causes serious illness in immunocompromised individuals. The study aims to overcome ethical challenges associated with using cats for research by developing mouse and tissue culture models. Researchers will explore how linoleic acid, a fatty acid found in cat intestines, influences the sexual development of the parasite. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into the biology of T. gondii and its impact on human health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised or at risk of severe illness from foodborne pathogens.
Not a fit: Patients who are healthy and have no risk factors for toxoplasmosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of toxoplasmosis, particularly in vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have performed: While the sexual development of Toxoplasma gondii has been studied in cats, this approach using alternative models is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Nicole Marie — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Davis, Nicole Marie
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.