Understanding how tsetse flies transmit African sleeping sickness
Trypanosome Transmission Biology in Tsetse
This study is looking at how tsetse flies spread Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) to help find new ways to stop the disease and improve health for both people and animals in sub-Saharan Africa.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10983753 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a neglected disease affecting sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to explore the biology of how tsetse flies transmit the disease, particularly looking at the interactions between the flies and the parasites in their saliva. By investigating these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop new strategies for preventing the transmission of the disease, which could also improve agricultural productivity by addressing related animal diseases. The ultimate goal is to evaluate the potential for a transmission-blocking vaccine that could protect both humans and animals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in or traveling to areas where Human African Trypanosomiasis is prevalent, particularly in conflict-affected regions of sub-Saharan Africa.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in or have no exposure to areas affected by Human African Trypanosomiasis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing the transmission of African sleeping sickness, significantly improving health outcomes in affected regions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding vector-borne diseases and developing preventive strategies, but this specific approach to blocking transmission at the bite site is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aksoy, Serap — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Aksoy, Serap
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.