Understanding how a specific blood trait affects malaria severity in children
Malaria variant surface antigen expression and vulnerability to disease in Malian children with Hemoglobin C trait
This study looks at how a special blood trait called hemoglobin C in children from Mali might help protect them from severe malaria, aiming to find out how this trait interacts with the malaria parasite to improve their immune response and potentially lead to better ways to prevent and treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10841431 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the hemoglobin C trait in children from Mali influences their vulnerability to malaria. It focuses on the interaction between the malaria parasite and the blood cells of children with this trait, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that provide protection against severe malaria. By analyzing the variant surface antigens of the malaria parasite, the study seeks to understand how these antigens affect the immune response in children with hemoglobin C trait. The findings could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for malaria in affected populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in rural Mali who possess the hemoglobin C trait.
Not a fit: Children without the hemoglobin C trait or those living outside the study area may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating malaria in children with hemoglobin C trait.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that hemoglobinopathies can provide protection against malaria, indicating a potential for success in this area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Travassos, Mark a — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Travassos, Mark a
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.