Understanding how malaria parasites survive drug resistance
Official title: Epigenetic drivers of quiescence in artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10910656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the malaria parasite can go into a sleep mode when treated with a common medicine, which helps it survive, and it aims to find new ways to fight malaria, especially to protect young children who are most at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,480,500 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2AI190432-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 5 years old living in regions where malaria is prevalent, particularly in Africa and Asia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by malaria or those who are older than 5 years may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that allow the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum to enter a dormant state in response to artemisinin treatment, which is crucial for its survival. By exploring the epigenetic changes and regulatory processes involved in this quiescence, the study aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could help combat drug-resistant malaria. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate and analyze the genetic factors that contribute to the parasite's ability to evade treatment. This work is particularly focused on the implications for young children, who are most affected by malaria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments that effectively target and eliminate drug-resistant malaria parasites, ultimately reducing mortality in affected populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting similar mechanisms in other pathogens, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for malaria treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Small-Saunders, Jennifer L. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Small-Saunders, Jennifer L.
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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.