Understanding the cell division process in Toxoplasma gondii
Official title: Deciphering the composite S-phase in Toxoplasma gondii
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10908661 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can affect many people, divides and grows, and it aims to create a new tool to help find better and safer treatments for those who are more vulnerable, like people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $187,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178797-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908661 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunocompromised and at risk of Toxoplasma gondii infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with Toxoplasma gondii or who have a robust immune system may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique cell cycle mechanisms of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which affects a significant portion of the human population. The study aims to develop a new tool, a Fluorescent Ubiquitination-based Cell Cycle Indicator (FUCCI) probe, to explore the atypical S-phase of the parasite's cell division. By gaining insights into how this parasite divides and survives, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new anti-parasitic drugs that could be safer and more effective for patients, especially those who are immunocompromised.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and less toxic treatments for Toxoplasma gondii infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the study of Toxoplasma gondii is ongoing, the approach of using innovative cell cycle indicators is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suvorova, Elena — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Suvorova, Elena
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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.