Understanding how Toxoplasma parasites change and affect human health
Cyclin-mediated control of Toxoplasma development
This study is looking at how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite changes form and how these changes might affect people with weakened immune systems, like those with AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, to help find better treatments for the illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10829450 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the life cycle of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can cause severe illness in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy. The study focuses on the transition between two forms of the parasite, tachyzoites and bradyzoites, to understand how these changes affect disease progression and treatment options. By exploring the mechanisms that control these transitions, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets to combat chronic and reactivated toxoplasmosis. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for this infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include immunocompromised individuals, such as those with AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and pregnant women who are newly infected.
Not a fit: Patients with healthy immune systems who are not at risk for Toxoplasma infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively eliminate chronic Toxoplasma infections and prevent reactivation in vulnerable patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms being studied may be novel, previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suvorova, Elena — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Suvorova, Elena
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.