Understanding how malaria parasites regulate their mitochondrial genes

MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF MALARIA MITOCHONDRIAL GENE REGULATION

NIH-funded research Idaho State University · NIH-11001940

This study is looking at how the malaria parasite manages its genes to survive against treatments, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients get better and avoid drug resistance.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIdaho State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pocatello, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001940 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, controls the expression of its mitochondrial genes. By using advanced techniques like whole genome sequencing and metabolic profiling, the study aims to uncover how these regulatory processes contribute to the parasite's ability to resist drug treatments. The findings could lead to the identification of new drug targets that are less likely to mutate and develop resistance, ultimately improving treatment options for malaria. Patients may benefit from new therapies developed based on this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals infected with malaria, particularly those with drug-resistant strains.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with malaria or those who have strains that are not resistant to current treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new malaria treatments that are more effective against drug-resistant strains.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting mitochondrial functions in parasites, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in malaria treatment.

Where this research is happening

Pocatello, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.