Understanding how the immune system manages asymptomatic malaria in children
Innate Immune Mechanisms Governing Subclinical Malaria in Children
This study looks at how children's immune systems in sub-Saharan Africa can keep malaria parasites in check without making them sick, and it hopes to find out more about how their immune cells work so we can improve malaria treatment in these areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10894014 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the immune system controls subclinical malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum in children living in sub-Saharan Africa. It focuses on the role of innate immune cells and the balance of inflammatory responses that allow children to harbor malaria parasites without showing symptoms. By examining blood samples from affected children, the study aims to uncover the epigenetic changes in immune cells that contribute to this phenomenon. The findings could provide insights into how to better manage and treat malaria in endemic regions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 8 to 15 years living in areas with moderate to high malaria transmission in sub-Saharan Africa.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic regions or who are asymptomatic but outside the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating malaria in children, potentially reducing the disease's prevalence and impact.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in malaria can lead to significant advancements in treatment and prevention strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kazura, James Walter — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Kazura, James Walter
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.