How immune cells fight malaria infections in young children

Regulation of macrophage function during acute infection with Plasmodium

NIH-funded research Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-11096090

This study looks at how certain immune cells in young children fight off malaria infections, aiming to learn more about their early response to the malaria parasite so we can find better ways to treat or prevent the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Little Rock, United States)
Project IDNIH-11096090 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific immune cells, particularly macrophages, respond to malaria infections in young children. It focuses on understanding the early immune response to the Plasmodium parasite, which causes malaria, and how certain transcription factors influence the activity of these immune cells. By studying the interactions between these cells and the parasite, the research aims to uncover new insights that could lead to improved treatments or preventive measures against malaria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk of malaria infection.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating malaria in young children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to malaria, but this specific focus on transcription factors in macrophages is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Little Rock, 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 acute infection
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.