Understanding the risks of malaria transmission through blood transfusions
The Malaria Transfusion Risk (MATRix) Study
This study is looking into how likely it is to catch malaria from blood transfusions in places like Uganda, where malaria is common, and it’s testing new ways to check for malaria in blood donors to help make blood transfusions safer for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914798 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the risk of malaria being transmitted through blood transfusions, particularly in regions where malaria is common, such as Uganda. It aims to evaluate the prevalence of malaria in blood donors and assess the effectiveness of new molecular screening methods to prevent transfusion-transmitted malaria (TTM). The study will also analyze the cost-effectiveness of these screening strategies to inform blood donation policies. By focusing on both endemic and non-endemic countries, the research seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations for safer blood transfusion practices.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals in regions with high malaria prevalence who may require blood transfusions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic areas or those who do not require blood transfusions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of malaria transmitted through blood transfusions, improving patient safety.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improved screening methods can effectively reduce transfusion-transmitted infections, suggesting a promising approach in this study.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bloch, Evan Martin — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Bloch, Evan Martin
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.