Investigating the spread of monkey malaria in Malaysia and improving disease detection.

Emerging zoonotic malaria in Malaysia: strengthening surveillance and evaluating population genetic structure to improve regional risk prediction tools

NIH-funded research Infectious Disease Society Kota Kinabalu · NIH-10909225

This study is looking into how the monkey malaria parasite is spreading in Malaysia, especially among pregnant women and people who don’t show symptoms, to help improve ways to detect and manage the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionInfectious Disease Society Kota Kinabalu NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia)
Project IDNIH-10909225 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the increasing transmission of the monkey malaria parasite, Plasmodium knowlesi, in Malaysia, which has become a major cause of malaria cases and deaths in the region. The project aims to enhance molecular surveillance systems to better detect and monitor the disease, especially in pregnant women and asymptomatic individuals. By conducting health facility surveys and screening for other malaria species, the study seeks to provide a clearer understanding of the disease's burden and inform effective malaria control strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in Sabah, Malaysia, particularly those who may be exposed to malaria or show symptoms of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients residing outside of Malaysia or those not at risk for malaria infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved detection and management of monkey malaria, ultimately reducing its impact on public health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in improving malaria surveillance and control strategies in similar regions, indicating that this approach has potential for effectiveness.

Where this research is happening

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

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.
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.