Understanding the body's defense against Toxoplasma gondii infection
Mucosal immunity to Toxoplasma gondii
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11127769
This research explores how the immune system in our gut responds to the common foodborne parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, to better understand both protective and harmful reactions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11127769 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on a strong immune response, particularly a signal called IFN-γ, to fight off the common foodborne parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. While much has been learned about how certain immune cells respond, we don't fully understand the role of the cells lining our intestines. This project aims to uncover how these intestinal cells react to the IFN-γ signal during infection, exploring both the ways they protect us and how they might sometimes cause damage to the gut. We want to identify which specific intestinal cells are involved in these responses and how their internal processes change to either help or harm the body during infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Toxoplasma gondii infection, especially those experiencing gut-related symptoms, are the ultimate beneficiaries of this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients without Toxoplasma gondii infection or related immune system issues would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating the gut damage that can occur during Toxoplasma gondii infections.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous understanding of immune responses to Toxoplasma gondii but explores a novel role for intestinal lining cells, which has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YAROVINSKY, FELIX — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: YAROVINSKY, FELIX
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.