Finding malaria parasite genes needed to make the infectious sexual stage
Phenotype-based Screens to Identify Genetic Factors Associated with Gametocyte Development in Plasmodium falciparum
Researchers will look for Plasmodium falciparum genes that let the malaria parasite form gametocytes to help guide ways to stop transmission and protect children and pregnant people in sub‑Saharan Africa.
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-11230213 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a large library of genetically mutated malaria parasites to find which parasite genes are required for gametocyte (sexual stage) development in human blood cells. Scientists will perform genome‑scale phenotypic screening with piggyBac mutagenesis and then apply advanced 'omics analyses to confirm and understand the roles of selected mutants. The work is lab‑based, using parasite cultures and molecular analyses rather than testing treatments in people. The information could point to parasite processes that vaccines or drugs might one day block to prevent mosquitoes from becoming infectious.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients directly, but its results would most directly benefit children and pregnant people exposed to P. falciparum in sub‑Saharan Africa.
Not a fit: People not exposed to P. falciparum (for example those in non‑endemic regions or with non‑malarial fevers) are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could reveal new targets for drugs or vaccines that block malaria transmission and reduce illness and death in children and pregnant people.
How similar studies have performed: Genome‑scale mutagenesis screens have successfully identified genes important for asexual blood stages of P. falciparum, but applying this forward screen approach specifically to sexual‑stage (gametocyte) development is newer and less established.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adams, John H — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Adams, John H
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.