A new vaccine target to block malaria transmission through mosquitoes
Official title: Anopheles FBG: a novel malaria transmission-blocking vaccine target
Funded at Florida International University · NIH-10737640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new vaccine that targets a specific protein in mosquitoes to help stop the spread of malaria, which could lead to better protection for people at risk of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida International University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | November 8, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $169,935 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173995-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10737640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who are at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria infection, such as those living in non-endemic areas, may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel vaccine that targets a specific protein in mosquitoes, which plays a crucial role in the transmission of malaria-causing parasites. By identifying and utilizing the mosquito fibrinogen-related protein 1 (FREP1), the research aims to create antibodies that can effectively inhibit the transmission of malaria from mosquitoes to humans. The approach involves detailed genetic analysis and targeted antibody development to enhance the efficacy of malaria prevention. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy as it could lead to more effective malaria vaccines in the future.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a breakthrough malaria vaccine that significantly reduces transmission rates and improves public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting mosquito proteins to block malaria transmission, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida International University
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Jun — Florida International University
- Study coordinator: Li, Jun
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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.