Submitter: Research Institute on Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (IMPaM), based in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Subcontractor: same as above
Priority area: Health
Participating/beneficiary countries: 3 countries (Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay)
PGTF input: US$ 28,000
Other inputs: US$ 100,000
Number: INT/19/K11
Duration: Twenty-four (24) months
Approval: 42nd Annual Ministerial Meeting of the Group of 77 (New York, 27 September 2018)
Completion: Final report submitted on 14 June 2024
Impact: The identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) in human biofluids such as serum and urine has fueled extensive research into their utility as biomarkers for various diseases, including echinococcosis. Current diagnostic techniques often fall short in the early detection of infections, assessing parasite viability post-treatment, and accurately determining parasite burden or infection status. Investigating how parasites secrete miRNAs may reveal whether this is an active process or a passive release resulting from treatment-induced damage. Collaborative research has provided a detailed analysis of the small RNA secretome of Echinococcus granulosus across its life stages, although these miRNAs have yet to be detected in patient samples. Additionally, the identification of parasite-specific proteins, markedly different from host proteins, offers promising avenues for novel biomarker development. This work is paving the way toward more accurate and effective diagnostics for helminth infections, underscoring the importance of continued research into the secretome and its diagnostic potential.

Final Report:

• INT-19-K11-FinalReport.pdf  *  [Language: English; Size: 755KB]




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* Note: The reports posted have been prepared by the submitting institutions and their content is the sole responsibility of their authors. Please forward any inquiries or requests for further information to the contact person provided and kindly send a copy to the Office of the Chairman of the Group of 77 for our records.