Understanding the structure and function of a key part of the Toxoplasma parasite
Official title: Structure and Function of the Conoid in Toxoplasma
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10982519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special part of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite to learn how it works, which could help scientists create new treatments for infections caused by this parasite and similar ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | November 7, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $706,598 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179885-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals affected by Toxoplasma gondii infections or related apicomplexan diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to Toxoplasma or other apicomplexan parasites may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the conoid, a specialized structure in the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, to better understand its role in the parasite's biology. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the team aims to uncover the complex interactions and functions of proteins that make up the conoid. This knowledge could lead to the development of new therapies for diseases caused by Toxoplasma and related parasites. The research focuses on identifying and characterizing the proteins involved in the conoid, which are crucial for the parasite's survival and pathogenicity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by Toxoplasma and other related parasites.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding similar structures in related parasites, indicating a promising avenue for therapeutic development.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Rui — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Rui
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.