Understanding how Toxoplasma gondii moves to improve treatments for brain infections in AIDS patients
Multiscale analysis of MyosinA-based motility in Toxoplasma gondii
This study is looking at a brain infection called Toxoplasmic encephalitis that affects people with AIDS, and it aims to find new ways to treat it by understanding how the parasite that causes the infection moves and invades cells, which could lead to better and easier treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10530647 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE), a severe brain infection affecting AIDS patients caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The project aims to explore the biology of this parasite, particularly how it moves and invades host cells, to identify new drug targets that could lead to better-tolerated treatments. By studying the motility of the parasite's motor protein, MyosinA, the researchers hope to develop small molecules that can disrupt its movement and reduce the severity of the infection. This work is crucial for improving the quality of life for patients suffering from TE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are AIDS patients who are at risk of or currently suffering from Toxoplasmic encephalitis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have AIDS or are not infected with Toxoplasma gondii may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, safer treatments for Toxoplasmic encephalitis in AIDS patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting motility mechanisms in parasites, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- 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
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.