Understanding how malaria parasites manage heme levels
Official title: Heme Homeostasis in the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11064628 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the malaria parasite manages a key substance it needs to survive while breaking down blood from its host, and it aims to find new ways to treat malaria by understanding how these processes work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 16, 2025 |
| Project end | January 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,528 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI188627-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064628 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who are at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not infected with malaria will likely not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum maintains its heme levels while digesting host hemoglobin in red blood cells. The study will utilize advanced techniques to identify heme-binding proteins that the parasite uses to regulate heme homeostasis, which is crucial for its survival. By generating genetically modified parasites, researchers will assess the role of these proteins in the parasite's ability to handle heme and respond to anti-malarial drugs. This research aims to uncover new targets for treatment by understanding the mechanisms of heme management in malaria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new anti-malarial therapies that target the parasite's heme management system.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways in malaria parasites, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rosenthal, Melissa — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Rosenthal, Melissa
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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.