Understanding how tsetse flies transmit African sleeping sickness parasites

Molecular Aspects of Tsetse and Trypanosome Transmission

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10551253

This study is looking at how the parasites that cause African Trypanosomiasis manage to survive in tsetse flies, with the goal of finding better ways to stop the flies from spreading the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10551253 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on preventing African Trypanosomiasis, a disease caused by parasites transmitted by tsetse flies. It aims to explore the interactions between tsetse flies and trypanosomes to understand how these parasites establish infections and evade the fly's defenses. By investigating the mechanisms that allow the parasites to bypass barriers in the fly's gut, the research seeks to develop effective vector control strategies. The approach combines molecular biology and transcriptomics to uncover the underlying processes of transmission.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in regions where African Trypanosomiasis is prevalent, particularly those at risk of exposure to tsetse flies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in endemic areas or who are not at risk of contracting African Trypanosomiasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for controlling the spread of African Trypanosomiasis, ultimately reducing the disease's impact on affected populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding vector-parasite interactions, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights into disease transmission.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: co-infection, coinfection

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.