Investigating a unique protein in malaria parasites that affects their movement and development
Official title: Malaria parasite harbors a unique protein lysine methyltransferase targeting both chromatin and motility machinery
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10847529 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein in malaria parasites that helps them move and grow, and by changing this protein, researchers hope to learn how it affects the parasite's ability to invade our red blood cells, which could lead to new ways to treat malaria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | May 24, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $187,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173856-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847529 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who may be at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria or those who have already been treated for malaria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a specific protein called PfSET7 found in malaria parasites, which plays a crucial role in their ability to move and develop. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR interference, the researchers aim to understand how altering this protein affects the parasite's lifecycle, particularly its ability to invade human red blood cells. The study seeks to identify unique features of PfSET7 that could lead to new treatments for malaria, distinct from those used for human diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new malaria treatments that specifically target the parasite without affecting human cells.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer treatment, suggesting that similar approaches may be effective for malaria, although this specific focus on PfSET7 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miao, Jun — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Miao, Jun
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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.