Understanding how childhood malaria infections affect immunity

Drivers of strain-specific and strain-transcendent antimalarial immunity in childhood

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10839428

This study looks at how different experiences with malaria in kids can help their bodies build immunity to the disease, using samples from children in sub-Saharan Africa to find ways to improve vaccines and prevention strategies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10839428 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different factors related to malaria infections in childhood influence the development of immunity against the disease. By examining the number, timing, and genetic makeup of malaria infections, the study aims to uncover how these elements contribute to the body's immune response. The research utilizes existing samples and data from children in sub-Saharan Africa to explore the relationship between exposure to malaria and the production of protective antibodies. This could lead to better vaccine development and strategies for malaria prevention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 21 years old living in sub-Saharan Africa who have been exposed to malaria.

Not a fit: Patients who are not children or who do not reside in malaria-endemic regions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria vaccines and improved immunity strategies for children in malaria-endemic regions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immunity to malaria, but this study aims to explore new aspects that have not been fully investigated.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.