Investigating blood-brain barrier issues related to cerebral malaria using advanced cell models.

In vitro modeling of blood brain barrier dysfunction on a chip to elucidate the pathogenesis of cerebral malaria

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10920487

This study is looking at how cerebral malaria impacts the protective barrier around the brain, using special cells from patients to create a model that helps researchers see how the malaria parasite affects brain cells, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920487 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how cerebral malaria affects the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which is crucial for protecting the brain. By creating a specialized model using brain microvascular endothelial cells derived from patient-specific stem cells, researchers aim to mimic the BBB in a controlled environment. This model will allow for direct testing of how the malaria parasite interacts with brain cells, potentially revealing new insights into the disease's pathogenesis and its effects on brain function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children under 11 years old who have experienced cerebral malaria or related neurological issues.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cerebral malaria or those outside the specified age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from cerebral malaria and related neurological conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using advanced in vitro models is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of neurological research, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 Acquired brain injury
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.