Motor protein that helps malaria parasites move and invade red blood cells
Structure and function of the Plasmodium myosin XIV-actin glideosome.
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE · NIH-11120964
Researchers are examining a parasite motor protein that powers movement and red blood cell invasion to help guide new treatments for people at risk of malaria.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11120964 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project examines the molecular machine malaria parasites use to glide and enter human cells. Scientists study the parasite's myosin-actin motor using protein structure methods, engineered parasite mutants, and biochemical tests in the lab. By mapping how the motor works and which parts are essential, they aim to reveal points where drugs could block parasite movement. The work is laboratory-based and focused on parasite proteins and cell models rather than testing treatments in people right now.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who might be eligible for future related trials are those at risk for malaria, such as children under five and residents of malaria-endemic regions in Africa.
Not a fit: Patients with non-malarial illnesses or those already suffering severe, late-stage complications of malaria may not see direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new drugs that stop parasites from invading red blood cells and help reduce severe malaria and deaths, especially in young children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies have mapped parts of this motor and shown that disrupting it kills parasites in the lab, but turning that knowledge into approved medicines has not yet been achieved.
Where this research is happening
BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE — BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TRYBUS, KATHLEEN M — UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE
- Study coordinator: TRYBUS, KATHLEEN M
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.