Understanding how RNA-binding proteins affect malaria drug resistance
Official title: State of the ART: Functional genomics of RNA-binding proteins and their role in artemisinin drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11083774 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in malaria parasites help them survive treatment with artemisinin, which is an important medicine for malaria, and the findings could lead to better treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | May 3, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $122,119 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AI177948-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083774 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 species of Plasmodium or those who do not respond to artemisinin treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RNA-binding proteins in the resistance of the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum to artemisinin, a key treatment for malaria. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and in vitro evolution, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this resistance. The goal is to identify specific genetic markers that contribute to the parasite's ability to survive treatment, which could lead to improved therapies for malaria. Patients may benefit from this research as it seeks to enhance the effectiveness of existing malaria treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for malaria, reducing the burden of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding drug resistance mechanisms in other pathogens, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruberto, Anthony a — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Ruberto, Anthony 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.