Improving malaria surveillance using blood tests and genetic data

Improving the accuracy of malaria surveillance with serology and parasite genetic data

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10987057

This study is looking to improve how we track malaria in places like Uganda by testing new ways to analyze blood samples and comparing two types of bednets to see which one works better at preventing malaria.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987057 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance malaria surveillance in high-burden areas like Uganda by using advanced techniques to analyze parasite DNA and antibodies in blood samples. By collecting data from 64 health facilities, the study will compare the effectiveness of two types of bednets in reducing malaria incidence. Cross-sectional surveys will be conducted at multiple time points to gather comprehensive data on malaria cases. The goal is to determine if molecular surveillance can provide more accurate estimates of malaria incidence than traditional methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 12 years old living in malaria-endemic areas of Uganda.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic regions or are over the age of 12 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria control strategies and improved health outcomes for children in high-burden regions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that molecular surveillance techniques can improve disease tracking and management, indicating a promising approach for malaria control.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.