Investigating factors that help malaria parasites survive in the liver
Parasite and host cell factors involved in the formation and persistence of Plasmodium vivax hypnozoites
This study is looking into how the malaria parasite can hide in the liver and cause relapses, with the goal of finding better treatments to help people who get malaria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax forms and persists in a dormant state within liver cells, which can lead to relapses of malaria. Using advanced laboratory models, including human liver-chimeric mice, the study aims to identify the molecular mechanisms that allow these parasites to remain hidden and reactivate later. By analyzing both the parasite's genetic factors and the host liver cell responses, the research seeks to uncover new insights that could lead to better treatments and prevention strategies for malaria. Patients may benefit from improved anti-malarial therapies developed from this research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced malaria infections, particularly those caused by Plasmodium vivax.
Not a fit: Patients who have never been infected with malaria or those with other types of malaria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for malaria, reducing the incidence of relapses and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding similar mechanisms in different malaria parasites, but this specific focus on Plasmodium vivax hypnozoites is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kappe, Stefan Hi — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kappe, Stefan Hi
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 below.