Understanding how atypical B cells help fight malaria
Official title: The function of atypical B cells in the immune response against malaria
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11220157 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain types of B cells in young children help fight off malaria, with the goal of finding ways to make malaria vaccines work better and keep kids safe from this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | January 3, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $812,704 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI182310-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11220157 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been exposed to malaria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to malaria or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of atypical B cells in the immune response to malaria, particularly in young children. It aims to differentiate between functional and dysfunctional atypical B cells to understand how they contribute to immunity against the Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria. By analyzing the development and function of these B cells, the research seeks to improve malaria vaccine efficacy, which is crucial given the high mortality rates among children. The study will involve examining immune responses in individuals who have experienced malaria to identify potential protective mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria vaccines, ultimately reducing the incidence and mortality of malaria in children.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to malaria, but the specific focus on atypical B cells is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bunnik, Evelien Margaretha — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Bunnik, Evelien Margaretha
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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.