Understanding how malaria parasites choose their red blood cell hosts
Malaria parasite determinants of host cell tropism
['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH · NIH-10886569
This study looks at how malaria parasites choose different types of red blood cells to infect, with the goal of finding ways to better control and eliminate malaria in people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10886569 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how malaria parasites, specifically Plasmodium falciparum, interact with different types of red blood cells (RBCs) to cause infection. By examining the molecular factors that influence the parasites' preferences for RBC age and species, the study aims to identify genetic variations that affect their ability to infect and persist in human populations. The researchers will use advanced genetic techniques to analyze these interactions, which could lead to better strategies for malaria control and elimination.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who are at risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not at risk of malaria infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved malaria treatments and prevention strategies by targeting the specific interactions between parasites and red blood cells.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding malaria parasite interactions with host cells, but this specific approach using forward genetics is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DURAISINGH, MANOJ T — HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
- Study coordinator: DURAISINGH, MANOJ 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.
Conditions: Candidate Disease Gene