Understanding a new protein in malaria-causing parasites
Official title: Characterizing a novel Plasmodium cytoskeletal protein
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11007191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new protein in the malaria parasite that helps it invade and multiply in our red blood cells, with the hope that understanding this process will lead to better treatments for malaria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,918 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI181256-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007191 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who may be at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria or those who have already been effectively treated for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a newly discovered protein in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which plays a crucial role in its life cycle. The study focuses on how this protein contributes to the parasite's ability to invade human red blood cells and reproduce. By examining the cytoskeletal structures of the parasite, researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for malaria. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform the development of more effective anti-malarial drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments that more effectively combat malaria.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in targeting similar proteins in malaria parasites, indicating a promising avenue for new therapeutic strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Navarro, Francesca Maria — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Navarro, Francesca Maria
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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.