Understanding how immune cells and antibodies protect against malaria
The role of natural killer cells and antibodies in protection from malaria
This study is looking at how certain immune cells and antibodies work together to help protect against malaria, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our bodies fight this disease and how this knowledge could help create better vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10789915 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural killer (NK) cells and antibodies in providing protection against malaria, particularly focusing on how these immune components interact with infected red blood cells. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind antibody-mediated protection, specifically through a process known as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, researchers will explore how certain NK cells can enhance their ability to combat malaria and how their function changes in response to the infection. This research could lead to a better understanding of malaria immunity and potentially inform vaccine development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in malaria-endemic regions, particularly pregnant women who may be at risk of placental malaria.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not pregnant are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing malaria and reducing the incidence of miscarriages associated with the disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to malaria, but this specific approach focusing on NK cells and ADCC is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hart, Geoffrey T — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Hart, Geoffrey T
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.