Understanding how Toxoplasma gondii invades host cells
Official title: Host cell membrane perforation during invasion by Toxoplasma gondii
Funded at University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-11002665 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite gets into our cells and what proteins it uses to do that, with the goal of finding new ways to create better treatments for people dealing with toxoplasmosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project start | January 3, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $424,127 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI169067-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002665 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised or pregnant, as they are at higher risk for severe complications from Toxoplasma gondii infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy and have a robust immune system may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Toxoplasma gondii parasite invades host cells, particularly focusing on the delivery of proteins that facilitate this process. By studying the biology of T. gondii, researchers aim to identify critical vulnerabilities in its life cycle that can be targeted for new drug development. The approach involves examining how these proteins manipulate host cell functions to benefit the parasite, which is crucial for developing better-tolerated treatments for those affected by toxoplasmosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, safer treatments for toxoplasmosis, particularly benefiting immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the biology of similar parasites, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Vermont & St Agric College
Burlington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ward, Gary E — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Ward, Gary E
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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.