Developing bacteria to help stop malaria transmission by mosquitoes
Official title: Toward field-ready paratransgenesis for malaria: bacterial strain optimization and microbiota interactions
Funded at Duquesne University · NIH-11127013 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specially designed bacteria can help stop mosquitoes from spreading malaria to people, making it a friendly addition to current ways we fight the disease, like using insecticides and medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duquesne University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | April 18, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $606,815 |
| NIH project number | 1U01AI184909-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127013 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions, particularly in Africa, where the disease poses a significant health risk.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not at risk of malaria infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating genetically engineered bacteria that can reduce the ability of mosquitoes to transmit malaria parasites to humans. By optimizing specific bacterial strains and studying their interactions with mosquito microbiota, the researchers aim to develop effective biological control methods. The approach involves ensuring that these bacteria do not carry antibiotic resistance genes and can effectively deliver proteins that inhibit malaria transmission. This innovative method seeks to complement existing malaria control strategies, such as insecticides and medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce malaria transmission rates, potentially saving countless lives and improving public health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using genetically modified organisms for vector control, indicating that this approach could be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lampe, David J — Duquesne University
- Study coordinator: Lampe, David J
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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.