Understanding how Trichomonas vaginalis interacts with host cells
Identification of key players mediating internalization of Trichomonas vaginalis extracellular vesicles by host cells and parasite adherence and survival in vivo
This study is looking at how the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite interacts with human cells to better understand how it survives and causes infections, which could help find new ways to treat trichomoniasis and improve women's health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10865121 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite and human host cells, focusing on how the parasite uses extracellular vesicles to facilitate its internalization and survival. By studying these interactions, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow the parasite to thrive and cause infections. The project involves laboratory experiments that analyze the behavior of the parasite and its effects on host cells, which could lead to new treatment strategies. The findings may also help in understanding the broader implications of trichomoniasis on women's health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with trichomoniasis or those at risk of infection, particularly women.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have trichomoniasis or are not at risk for sexually transmitted infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments or vaccines for trichomoniasis, improving health outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding host-parasite interactions, but this specific approach to studying Trichomonas vaginalis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Patricia Jean — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Patricia Jean
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.