Investigating how malaria parasites use host proteins to survive
Official title: Understanding and Targeting Host Processes Essential to Plasmodium Infection
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11089457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how malaria parasites use a specific protein in our liver cells to survive, and by understanding this process better, researchers hope to find new ways to prevent malaria and develop better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $529,019 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173042-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of malaria infection, particularly those living in endemic regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria or those who have already been infected and treated may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the interactions between malaria parasites and host liver cells, specifically how the parasite Plasmodium utilizes a host protein called aquaporin 3 (AQP3) to thrive. By employing advanced imaging techniques and genetic tools, the team aims to uncover the mechanisms behind AQP3's role in the parasite's lifecycle. The findings could lead to new strategies for preventing malaria by targeting these critical host processes, potentially paving the way for innovative drug and vaccine development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments or vaccines that effectively combat malaria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting host processes to combat malaria, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Derbyshire, Emily R — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Derbyshire, Emily R
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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.