Understanding how antibodies can help design better malaria vaccines
Defining functional humoral correlates of immunity to guide vaccine design
This study is looking at how children's immune systems fight off malaria by focusing on antibodies, with the hope of finding ways to create better vaccines to protect kids under 11 from this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10977055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses, particularly the role of antibodies, in providing protection against malaria in children under 11 years old. By analyzing how these immune responses work together, the study aims to identify key factors that can guide the development of more effective malaria vaccines. The researchers will use a specialized approach called Systems Serology to profile antibodies against various malaria antigens, which may reveal important insights into how to enhance vaccine efficacy. The ultimate goal is to improve vaccine design to offer better protection for vulnerable populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are at risk of malaria infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of malaria or are older than 11 years may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective malaria vaccines, significantly reducing the incidence of malaria in children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to malaria, but this approach aims to provide novel insights that could enhance vaccine design.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Batista, Facundo Damian — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Batista, Facundo Damian
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.