Why P. vivax hides in the liver and later causes relapses
Uncovering the parasite and host determinants of Plasmodium vivax hypnozoite formation and development using single cell sequencing and human liver-chimeric mice
Using human liver models and single‑cell sequencing, researchers aim to find what lets the P. vivax malaria parasite hide in the liver and later cause relapses, to help people at risk of P. vivax infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11254934 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses human liver cells grown in mice and single‑cell sequencing to watch how individual parasites and liver cells behave when P. vivax infects the liver. Scientists will look for parasite genes and host cell signals that let some parasites enter a dormant hypnozoite state and later reactivate. The lab model with human liver tissue helps reveal interactions not seen in standard cell cultures. Findings could point to targets for drugs or vaccines that stop relapses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by P. vivax malaria, particularly those who experience repeated relapses, are the group most likely to benefit from the findings of this work.
Not a fit: People who are not exposed to P. vivax or who only have other non‑P. vivax illnesses are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify targets for treatments that clear dormant liver forms and prevent P. vivax relapses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has described hypnozoites but using single‑cell sequencing together with humanized liver mouse models is relatively new and still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vaughan, Ashley M — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Vaughan, Ashley M
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.