Regulation of axoneme assembly during malaria parasite gametogenesis
Official title: Regulation of axoneme assembly during Plasmodium falciparum gametogenesis
Funded at Iowa State University · NIH-11367631 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant studies how the malaria parasite builds the tail-like axoneme during the formation of male gametes, which could lead to new ways to prevent malaria transmission.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project start | July 13, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $578,956 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI195769-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11367631 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals with knowledge of malaria biology or healthcare settings where malaria is prevalent, but this grant is a basic science project and does not recruit patients.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient participation is involved in this basic research unless future translational steps are taken.
What this research studies
The project focuses on Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria, and examines how axoneme assembly happens in male gametocytes. Researchers will explore the proteins and steps involved in forming the flagellum core that powers microgamete movement. By understanding these processes, they aim to identify targets that could stop the parasite from developing transmissible forms in the blood and mosquitoes. The work combines cellular biology and molecular approaches to uncover critical steps in parasite reproduction with potential vaccine or therapeutic implications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could help block transmission of malaria by preventing male gamete formation or function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have begun to map parasite flagellar components; this project seeks to advance understanding with a focus on transmission-blocking potential.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa State University
Ames, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Sudhir — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Sudhir
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.