Understanding how Plasmodium vivax becomes resistant to antimalarial drugs
Molecular basis of antimalarial drug resistance in Plasmodium vivax
This study is looking into why some malaria parasites, specifically Plasmodium vivax, don't respond to the common treatment chloroquine, and it's for anyone interested in improving how we fight malaria by understanding the genetic changes that help these parasites resist the drug.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031340 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind drug resistance in the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium vivax, particularly focusing on the antimalarial drug chloroquine. The study aims to identify specific genetic variations in drug transporter genes that may contribute to resistance, which is crucial for improving malaria treatment strategies. By analyzing these genetic factors, researchers hope to enhance case management and control efforts against malaria. The approach includes comparative genomic analysis and ex vivo drug susceptibility assays to better understand the resistance patterns.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, especially those experiencing treatment failure with chloroquine.
Not a fit: Patients with malaria caused by other species of Plasmodium, such as Plasmodium falciparum, may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for malaria, particularly for patients infected with drug-resistant strains.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding drug resistance mechanisms in Plasmodium falciparum, but studies specifically targeting Plasmodium vivax are less common, making this approach relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duraisingh, Manoj T — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Duraisingh, Manoj T
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.