Understanding how malaria parasites evade the immune system through gene changes
Extent, dynamics and mechanisms of Plasmodium vivax immune evasion caused by PvDBP gene amplification
This study is looking at how the malaria parasite, Plasmodium vivax, manages to hide from our immune system and how changes in a specific gene might affect the success of treatments using human antibodies, with the goal of helping to create better vaccines for malaria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Institut Pasteur Du Cambodge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889272 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune evasion mechanisms of Plasmodium vivax malaria parasites, focusing on the PvDBP gene, which is crucial for the parasite's ability to invade red blood cells. The study aims to assess how variations in this gene affect the effectiveness of human monoclonal antibodies designed to neutralize the parasite. By analyzing samples from Cambodia, the research will explore the relationship between gene amplification in the parasite and genetic variations in the human population that may influence susceptibility to malaria. This work is essential for developing effective blood-stage vaccines against malaria.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in malaria-endemic regions, particularly those in Cambodia, who may be affected by Plasmodium vivax infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not infected with Plasmodium vivax may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective malaria vaccines that can overcome the parasite's immune evasion strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting Plasmodium vivax, but the specific approach of addressing gene amplification and immune evasion mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA
- Institut Pasteur Du Cambodge — Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Popovici, Jean — Institut Pasteur Du Cambodge
- Study coordinator: Popovici, Jean
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.