Understanding how Toxoplasma gondii interacts with neurons and the immune system
Neuronal Latency and Toxoplasma
This study is looking at how a common parasite called Toxoplasma gondii interacts with brain cells and how certain immune cells can help fight the infection, which could lead to new ways to treat long-lasting infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897034 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the Toxoplasma gondii parasite and neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). It focuses on how T cells, particularly CD8+ T cells, can help clear the infection by producing a cytokine called IFN-γ, while also exploring how the parasite can evade immune detection by transforming into a latent form. By using advanced transgenic reporter systems, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the immune response to T. gondii and the challenges posed by its latent stage. This could lead to new insights into potential therapies for managing chronic infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic Toxoplasma gondii infections or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Toxoplasma gondii infections or related neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively target the latent stage of Toxoplasma gondii, improving management of chronic infections.
How similar studies have performed: There is accumulating evidence suggesting that T cell responses can influence the outcome of Toxoplasma infections, indicating that this research builds on promising findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunter, Christopher a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hunter, Christopher a
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.