Understanding how platelets affect severe malaria and lung damage.

Defining the role of platelet-mediated glycocalyx breakdown in driving pathogenic CD8 activity during severe malaria.

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10826336

This study is looking at how platelets might contribute to lung problems in people with severe malaria, especially by seeing how they work with certain immune cells, and it hopes to find new ways to help patients breathe better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10826336 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of platelets in causing lung damage during severe malaria, particularly focusing on how they interact with CD8 T cells. By examining the molecular mechanisms behind pulmonary vascular leak, the study aims to uncover how these interactions lead to conditions like malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (MA-ARDS). The research utilizes both human data and mouse models to explore these pathways, with the goal of identifying potential therapeutic targets to improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from severe malaria, particularly those experiencing respiratory distress.

Not a fit: Patients with mild malaria or those not affected by respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for severe malaria and related lung complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of platelets in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.