Investigating how certain proteins help malaria parasites divide
Official title: Understanding the role of transmembrane proteins for Plasmodium cell division
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10996197 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help the malaria parasite divide and grow in the blood, which could lead to new ways to treat malaria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI186297-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996197 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of malaria infection or those living in endemic regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria or those who have already been treated for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific transmembrane proteins in the cell division process of the malaria-causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. By examining how these proteins function during the unique method of cytokinesis, the study aims to uncover critical mechanisms that allow the parasite to replicate within the human bloodstream. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques and super-resolution microscopy to visualize and analyze the proteins' behavior and interactions. This knowledge could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies to combat malaria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for malaria, potentially reducing the disease's impact on affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar cellular processes in other pathogens, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Back, Peter S — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Back, Peter S
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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.