Understanding how Toxoplasma infections reactivate in the body
Defining the cell and molecular basis of Toxoplasma recrudescence
This study is looking at how a parasite called Toxoplasma can wake up and cause health problems in people with weakened immune systems, and it's designed to help find new ways to stop this from happening and keep patients healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Riverside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11004612 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the reactivation of Toxoplasma, a parasite that can cause serious health issues, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. The team has developed a new model to study how the dormant form of the parasite, known as bradyzoite, can reactivate and lead to illness. By examining the changes in host cells and the parasite's gene expression during this process, the researchers aim to uncover potential therapeutic strategies to prevent reactivation and improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are chronically infected with Toxoplasma, particularly those who are immunocompromised.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with Toxoplasma or those with robust immune systems may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent the reactivation of Toxoplasma infections, significantly improving health for those at risk.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on Toxoplasma, this innovative approach to studying its reactivation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Riverside, United States
- University of California Riverside — Riverside, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilson, Emma H — University of California Riverside
- Study coordinator: Wilson, Emma H
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.