Understanding how malaria parasites manage RNA for survival and drug resistance
Official title: Functions of mRNPs in RNA metabolism in Plasmodium falciparum
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11226060 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain tiny structures in the malaria parasite help it grow and survive, especially when it's under stress, and the goal is to find new ways to fight malaria as drug resistance becomes a bigger problem.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | June 10, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $375,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187187-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11226060 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who may be affected by drug-resistant malaria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas or those who are not infected with malaria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) granules in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, focusing on how these structures regulate protein translation and contribute to the parasite's ability to survive and develop. By using advanced techniques such as reverse genetics and proteomics, the study aims to identify specific molecular markers and understand the dynamics of mRNPs during different life stages of the parasite and under stress conditions. The findings could lead to the discovery of new targets for antimalarial drugs, addressing the growing issue of drug resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antimalarial therapies that are effective against drug-resistant strains of malaria.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting the translation machinery of malaria parasites, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in antimalarial drug development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cui, Liwang — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Cui, Liwang
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.