Understanding how malaria parasites manipulate host cells
Official title: PTEX mechanism in malaria parasite effector protein export and host cell subversion
Funded at Iowa State University · NIH-10872168 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how malaria parasites send special proteins into our cells to help them survive and make us sick, and it hopes to find new ways to treat malaria by understanding a key protein complex involved in this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $366,297 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL170104-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872168 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions, particularly those who may be experiencing or at risk of malaria infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by malaria or live in regions where malaria is not present may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which malaria parasites export proteins to alter the behavior of host cells, which is crucial for their survival and disease progression. The study focuses on a specific protein complex known as PTEX, which plays a vital role in this process. By examining how these proteins are identified and transported, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets that could lead to more effective treatments for malaria. The approach includes advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize these processes at a molecular level.
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 similar mechanisms in malaria parasites, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa State University
Ames, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beck, Josh Ryan — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Beck, Josh Ryan
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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.