Understanding how malaria persists in Africa despite declining cases of one type.
Relapsing malaria in Africa: mechanisms for persistence amid falciparum decline
This study is looking into why certain types of malaria, like Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax, keep coming back in Africa even as other types are getting less common, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how these malaria types can hide in the body and cause new infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10873242 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the persistence of malaria caused by Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax in Africa, particularly as cases of Plasmodium falciparum decline. It aims to understand how these malaria species can evade treatment and cause recurrent infections through dormant liver stages and early transmission. By utilizing advanced molecular diagnostics and high-throughput genotyping, the study seeks to gather comprehensive data on the transmission biology and relapse patterns of these malaria types in various African communities. This approach will help identify the biological factors that contribute to the resurgence of these malaria species.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in malaria-endemic regions of Africa, particularly those who have experienced malaria infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas or those who have never been infected with malaria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for controlling and treating malaria infections in Africa.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on Plasmodium falciparum, the investigation into Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax in Africa is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Juliano, Jonathan J — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Juliano, Jonathan J
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 below.