Understanding how antibodies protect young children from malaria
Identifying functional antibody responses that protect against malaria in children
This study is looking at how certain antibodies in young children in Malawi can help protect them from severe malaria, and it aims to find out which specific antibody traits are most helpful in fighting the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889106 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific antibody responses in young African children can influence the outcome of malaria infections. By utilizing advanced techniques like Systems Serology and machine learning, the study aims to profile various antibody characteristics against malaria antigens, particularly focusing on the Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1). The goal is to identify which antibody features are associated with protection from severe malaria and other complications. This research is conducted in Blantyre, Malawi, where children with different malaria outcomes are closely monitored.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in malaria-endemic regions, particularly in Africa.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 0-11 years or those not living in malaria-endemic areas 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 young children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar Systems Serology approaches has successfully identified key antibody responses in other malaria contexts, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seydel, Karl Boynton — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Seydel, Karl Boynton
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.