Creating new drugs to fight malaria by targeting a specific enzyme

Development of phenolic small molecule inhibitors of PfATP6, a Plasmodium calcium ATPase

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SACRAMENTO · NIH-11091570

This study is working on creating new malaria medicines that target a specific enzyme in the malaria parasite, with the hope of finding treatments that are easier to make and more effective for people suffering from malaria.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SACRAMENTO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SACRAMENTO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11091570 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new antimalarial drugs that inhibit a calcium-transporting enzyme called PfATP6 found in the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The approach involves designing and testing simple phenolic compounds that can effectively block this enzyme, which is crucial for the parasite's survival. By synthesizing these compounds, researchers aim to create effective treatments that are easier to produce and potentially more effective than existing options. The ultimate goal is to better understand how these inhibitors interact with the enzyme at a molecular level, paving the way for new therapies against malaria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who may benefit from new antimalarial therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not infected with malaria may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and accessible treatments for malaria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing inhibitors targeting similar enzymes in other infectious diseases, suggesting a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SACRAMENTO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.