Understanding the genetics of Cryptosporidium parasites
Official title: Cryptosporidium mutagenesis
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10892052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a parasite called Cryptosporidium parvum, which causes bad diarrhea in babies, reacts to medicines and causes illness, so we can find better treatments and vaccines to help those who are affected, especially in poorer countries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $243,665 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173461-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892052 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children in low- and middle-income countries who are at risk of or suffering from cryptosporidiosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by cryptosporidiosis or those living in high-income countries may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new genetic tools to study Cryptosporidium parvum, a parasite that causes severe diarrhea in infants, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. By using a method called forward genetics, researchers aim to identify the genetic factors that influence how these parasites respond to drugs and their ability to cause disease. This approach will help uncover important information about drug resistance and other traits that affect treatment outcomes. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance our understanding of Cryptosporidium and aid in the development of effective therapies and vaccines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and prevention strategies for cryptosporidiosis, significantly benefiting affected infants and their families.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized forward genetics in related parasites, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into Cryptosporidium as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Widmer, Giovanni — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Widmer, Giovanni
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.