Developing a vaccine to prevent malaria in young children
Multi-target blood stage vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect young children in Africa from malaria, focusing on two promising candidates that have shown potential in previous research, to make sure they are safe and effective against this serious disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991297 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a vaccine targeting the blood stage of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which is particularly deadly for young children in Africa. The project focuses on two promising vaccine candidates, PfCDPK5 and PfGARP, which have been identified through advanced screening methods involving antibodies from children who have survived malaria. By advancing these candidates, the research seeks to address the urgent need for effective malaria vaccines, especially for children under five years old who are at the highest risk. The methodology includes laboratory studies and fieldwork in malaria-endemic regions to ensure the vaccine's effectiveness and safety.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of five living in malaria-endemic areas, particularly in Africa.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than five years or those living in non-endemic regions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safe and effective vaccine that significantly reduces malaria-related deaths in young children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing malaria vaccines, but this approach is innovative and aims to address gaps in current vaccine strategies.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raj, Dipak Kumar — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Raj, Dipak Kumar
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 below.