A new model to predict malaria transmission based on environmental factors
Official title: A Novel Hydrology-based Malaria Transmission Model and Field Applications
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-10735900 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how things like water and weather affect where mosquitoes that spread malaria live, so we can find better ways to control them and help keep people safe from malaria in Africa.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | November 7, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174183-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10735900 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions of Africa, particularly in areas where current control measures are failing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living outside of malaria-endemic regions or those not affected by malaria will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how environmental factors influence malaria transmission in Africa, focusing on the development of a hydrology-based model. By predicting where mosquito larvae thrive, the study aims to improve vector control strategies, particularly larval source management (LSM). The approach combines field data and environmental modeling to identify optimal areas for intervention, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of malaria control efforts. The research seeks to address the limitations of current malaria prevention methods, such as insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria control strategies, reducing the incidence of malaria in affected regions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using environmental modeling for vector control, but this specific hydrology-based approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Guiyun — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Yan, Guiyun
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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.