Understanding how malaria parasites transport iron for survival
Official title: Function of a putative iron transporter in the Plasmodium apicoplast
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11090559 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how malaria parasites get the iron they need to grow inside our red blood cells, with the hope of finding new ways to treat malaria, especially since some current medicines aren't working as well anymore.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | May 16, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI185746-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090559 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with malaria, particularly those infected with Plasmodium falciparum.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with malaria caused by other Plasmodium species or those who do not respond to iron-related therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which malaria-causing parasites, specifically Plasmodium falciparum, acquire iron, which is essential for their growth and survival within red blood cells. The study focuses on the apicoplast organelle, a unique structure in these parasites, to identify iron transporters that could serve as new targets for treatment. By understanding these processes, researchers aim to develop innovative therapies that can effectively combat malaria, especially in light of increasing treatment failures with current medications. The approach combines molecular biology techniques and genetic analysis to uncover the essential functions of these transporters.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for malaria that are more effective against resistant strains of the parasite.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways in malaria parasites, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sigala, Paul a — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Sigala, Paul a
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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.