Understanding how treating malaria infections affects children's brain health and learning.

Assessing the Impact of Treatment of Asymptomatic Malaria Infections on Inflammation and Cognition in Schoolchildren

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11015891

This study is looking at how treating hidden malaria infections in schoolchildren in sub-Saharan Africa can help reduce inflammation and improve their thinking skills, with the hope of boosting their learning and health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015891 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of treating asymptomatic malaria infections on inflammation and cognitive abilities in schoolchildren. It focuses on children in sub-Saharan Africa who may not show symptoms but still carry the malaria parasite, which can impact their health and learning. The study will measure inflammation levels and cognitive performance before and after treatment to determine if addressing these infections can improve children's academic outcomes. By analyzing the relationship between malaria, inflammation, and cognition, the research aims to provide insights into better health strategies for affected populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are school-aged children living in sub-Saharan Africa who are asymptomatically infected with the malaria parasite.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with malaria or those who are older than the targeted age group may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive performance and academic achievement in children suffering from asymptomatic malaria infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that treating malaria infections can have positive effects on health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.