Understanding how malaria parasites survive in red blood cells
Official title: Proton pumping and energy metabolism of the ring stage malaria parasites
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11119030 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how malaria parasites survive in red blood cells when they're not very active, with the goal of finding new ways to treat malaria, especially the tough strains that don't respond to current medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $574,112 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI184855-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119030 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who are at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of malaria or those who have already been treated for malaria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biology of the ring stage of malaria parasites, specifically how they manage to survive within red blood cells despite being metabolically inactive. The approach focuses on understanding the mechanisms of energy metabolism and proton pumping in these parasites, which is crucial for developing new treatments. By studying the unique characteristics of the ring stage, researchers aim to identify potential targets for anti-malarial drugs that could effectively combat this stage of the parasite's lifecycle. This research could lead to breakthroughs in treating malaria, particularly against drug-resistant strains.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective anti-malarial treatments that target the ring stage of the parasite.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic processes in malaria parasites, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ke, Hangjun — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Ke, Hangjun
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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.