How gut bacteria influence the severity of malaria in children

Role of the Gut Microbiota in Shaping Severity of Malaria

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11083735

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might influence how severe malaria can be in children, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent and treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083735 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between gut microbiota and the severity of malaria in children. It aims to identify specific gut bacteria that affect the immune response to the malaria parasite, Plasmodium. By studying both human and mouse models, the research seeks to understand how certain gut bacteria can increase susceptibility to severe malaria. The findings could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating malaria by targeting gut microbiota.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in regions where malaria is prevalent, particularly in Africa.

Not a fit: Patients who are not children or those living in non-endemic malaria regions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for malaria in children, potentially reducing the severity of the disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in various diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into malaria.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Conditions bacterial disease treatmentbacterial infectious disease treatment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.