Understanding how malaria parasites multiply in mosquitoes
Official title: Development and Composition of the Basal Complex During Plasmodium Sporogony
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11094083 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how malaria parasites grow inside mosquitoes and how they turn into the infectious form that can spread the disease, with the goal of finding ways to stop malaria from being transmitted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | May 23, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $204,327 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI181227-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094083 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 at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
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.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex process by which malaria parasites, specifically Plasmodium, multiply within mosquitoes. It focuses on the formation of sporozoites, which are the infectious stage of the parasite, and how they are produced from the initial parasite through a process called segmentation. Using advanced imaging techniques like 3D microscopy and proximity proteomics, the study aims to uncover the composition and function of the basal complex that directs this segmentation. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to provide insights into malaria transmission and potential interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for controlling malaria transmission by targeting the lifecycle of the parasite in mosquitoes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding malaria parasite biology, but this specific approach to studying the basal complex during sporozoite formation is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lindner, Scott E — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Lindner, Scott E
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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.