How different infections affect malaria parasite reproduction
Official title: Impact of infection complexity on P. falciparum sexual commitment and gametocytemia
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10775836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different types of infections affect the malaria parasite's ability to reproduce and spread to mosquitoes, which could help us find better ways to control and eliminate malaria for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176774-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10775836 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with malaria, particularly those experiencing complex infections with multiple parasite strains.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with malaria or those with a single strain infection may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the complexity of infections influences the malaria parasite's ability to reproduce sexually and produce gametocytes, which are necessary for transmission to mosquitoes. By examining various factors, including host and environmental influences, the study aims to understand why some malaria parasites choose to invest in sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction. The research employs molecular techniques to quantify the expression of key genes involved in this process, providing insights into the dynamics of malaria transmission. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved strategies for malaria control and eradication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria control strategies that reduce transmission and improve public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding malaria transmission dynamics, but this specific focus on infection complexity and sexual commitment is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Shannon Takala — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Shannon Takala
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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.