Articles tagged with Malaria
Researchers have measured high levels of DDT in breast milk from nursing mothers in malaria-stricken villages in South Africa, far exceeding World Health Organization limits. The findings highlight the need to decrease exposure to DDT, which has been linked to various health issues, including cancer and impaired reproductive health.
Researchers credit adaptability and flexibility in Sri Lanka's malaria control program with its success in reducing cases by 99.9% since 1999. The program adapted to protect displaced populations and distributed long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, sustaining key prevention and surveillance activities.
Researchers have identified an enzyme responsible for forming the 'mating plug' in male Anopheles mosquitoes, which can be inhibited to prevent reproduction. The approach uses a chemical compound that targets this enzyme, making it a potential tool against malaria transmission.
A new video article in JoVE presents a novel technique to study interactions between HIV-1 and Plasmodium falciparum in cultured human cells. This method allows scientists to explore different parameters of co-infection, enabling better understanding of the cellular level interactions between these two deadly diseases.
A new study on malaria genomes reveals significant genetic diversity in Plasmodium vivax, a species of malaria that affects humans outside Africa, making it adept at evading drugs and vaccines. The research also sequenced the genome of Plasmodium cynomolgi, a close relative that infects Asian monkeys.
Researchers mapped the importance of enzyme shape and function in rhomboid proteases, finding four main regions important for maintaining shape and at least two regions crucial for function. The study's findings could lead to the development of drugs to treat malaria and other parasitic diseases.
Researchers developed transgenic P. falciparum to study human antibody response to surface proteins. They found that antibodies targeting PfEMP1 mediate human immunity to malaria, with reduced risk of symptoms.
Researchers at Penn State University found that immunization with a particular type of malaria vaccine can create conditions for the evolution of more severe disease-causing parasites. These parasites evolved in response to vaccination, but the exact mechanism is still unknown.
Researchers at UC San Diego identified a key enzyme in malaria parasites that could lead to new anti-malarial drugs. The team discovered a selective inhibitor, ML276, which stops parasite growth even in resistant strains.
Researchers at Shoklo Malaria Research Unit found a six-fold decline in maternal mortality from 499 to 79 amongst refugees between 1986 and 2010. Frequent antenatal screening significantly reduced malaria-related deaths, with the number falling from an estimated 1,000 deaths per 100,000 pregnant women before screening to zero in 2005.
Researchers from the Zoological Society of London identified the factors influencing the success of malaria parasites in New Zealand bird species, including two previously unknown strains. The study's findings provide insights into the traits that enable parasites to survive and thrive in new environments.
Researchers have developed genetically modified bacteria that can prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria by killing the parasite. The modified bacteria were found to be 98% effective in reducing the malaria parasite burden in mosquitoes, with an 84% decrease in mosquito prevalence.
The article emphasizes the need for sustainable integrated vector management strategies to address insecticide resistance and control malaria. Researchers argue that such approaches, inspired by agricultural practices, can provide more effective and durable pest management.
Researchers confirm indoor insecticide spraying reduces malaria deaths by 62% and finds DDT may be effective in areas with intense disease transmission. However, concerns over health risks must be weighed against its potential to reduce malaria illnesses and deaths.
A mathematical model has been proposed to study malaria transmission, focusing on the reproduction number and its dependence on human travel rates. The research highlights the critical role of human movement in spreading the disease, suggesting that effective control measures may involve more rigorous border screening and regulation.
Researchers developed a new method to extract parasite DNA from patient blood samples, allowing for rapid analysis of malaria genomes. The study found unique differences in malaria development between Africa, Asia, and Oceania, with potential hotspots of drug resistance identified.
Researchers at UCI have developed genetically modified mosquitoes that are unable to infect people with malaria. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing the spread of the disease, which affects over 40% of the world's population and kills nearly 1 million people annually.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have identified the function of a series of proteins within the mosquito that transduce a signal to trigger an immune response against the malaria parasite. The study found that manipulating these proteins through genetic engineering can create a malaria-resistant mosquito.
A new approach, seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC), has been found to have significant public health benefits if implemented in high-risk areas. Researchers estimate that up to 11 million malaria cases and 50,000 deaths could be prevented annually with full implementation.
Sandeep Kishore has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on malaria parasites and his efforts to integrate basic sciences and public health perspectives in global health. He developed an open-source curriculum on neglected diseases, which has evolved into a longitudinal four-year program with full administrative support.
Researchers developed a technique to genetically differentiate Plasmodium falciparum parasites, linking infection with new parasites to the risk of clinical disease. This tool could help evaluate new prevention strategies and vaccines, as well as understand how anti-malarial treatments work.
Developing a new, two-step process could stabilize prices for the raw material essential for making malaria treatment drugs. The improved manufacturing method generates less waste and requires less artemisinin, potentially easing supply problems.
Researchers have shown that a new class of anti-inflammatory agents, called IDR peptides, could increase survival from severe clinical malaria when used in combination with antimalarial drugs. In mouse models infected with the Plasmodium berghei parasite, these treatments prevented inflammation and improved survival.
Researchers from Seattle BioMed, University of Copenhagen and University of Edinburgh report findings that could lead to new treatments for severe malaria. The studies identified specific parasite proteins associated with the disease, offering potential targets for drugs.
A National Institutes of Health study reveals that up to 42% of antimalarial drugs are either poor quality or fake, compromising treatment efficacy and spreading drug resistance. The research emphasizes the need for improved quality control measures and regulatory oversight to protect vulnerable populations.
Biologists at UC San Diego have engineered algae to produce potential candidates for a malaria vaccine. The use of algae can lead to a cheaper and more accessible vaccine, as it can be grown in ponds or bathtubs anywhere in the world.
Researchers have engineered algae to produce potential candidates for a vaccine that prevents malaria transmission. The use of algae to produce malaria proteins that elicited antibodies in laboratory mice and prevented transmission was published in PLoS ONE.
Researchers have found that nearly 4 out of 10 women at health facilities have a malaria infection, with an estimated 25 million pregnancies at risk each year. The new treatment combines anti-malarial and antibiotic therapy to prevent and treat these conditions simultaneously, which could save thousands of lives.
A systematic review found high prevalence rates of malaria and STIs/RTIs among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa. The pooled prevalence estimates indicate that 32% of peripheral malaria and 25.8% placental malaria were present, while bacterial vaginosis affected 50.8% of the population.
Researchers have discovered a new class of malaria transmission-blocking compounds that work by inhibiting bumped kinase I, blocking the parasite's infectious stage. Genetic variation is also linked to high blood pressure, with researchers finding that inhibiting renin pathway activity can return blood pressure to normal levels.
A Cornell University scientist and designer from Africa have developed a fashionable hooded bodysuit embedded with insecticides to ward off mosquitoes infected with malaria. The garment, made with metal organic framework molecules, can provide extra protection throughout the day and last longer than traditional repellents.
Researchers developed a new class of compounds that block malaria transmission from humans to mosquitoes by inhibiting bumped kinase I. This approach represents a new strategy for controlling malaria spread. The study's preclinical data in mice suggests the inhibitors are safe and well-tolerated.
A new research published in The Lancet reveals that coordinated efforts across multiple sectors in Millennium Village sites in sub-Saharan Africa have led to a third reduction in child mortality rates under 5 years old. The study found that integrated interventions, including agricultural inputs and basic improvements in water and sani...
Researchers from UCLA created a crowd-sourced online gaming system where players distinguish malaria-infected red blood cells from healthy ones, achieving accuracy within 1.25% of medical professionals. The platform has potential to overcome limitations in malaria diagnosis, affecting 210 million people annually.
Michigan State University researchers are leading a clinical trial in Malawi to test the safety and feasibility of levetiracetam, an anti-seizure medication, to control seizures in children with cerebral malaria. The trial aims to improve neurologic outcomes for survivors, who often develop epilepsy or other neurologic disorders.
The Domino technology, developed at the University of Alberta, enables fast and accurate genetic testing using a miniaturized plastic chip. The innovation has the potential to transform point-of-care medicine, making it possible to screen large populations in a short time.
A new report identifies strategies to improve the marketplace for malaria bed nets, aiming to save up to $630 million for the global community. The report suggests modifying policies to reduce costs and create market incentives for private enterprises to produce better-performing nets.
A new study links malaria resurgence to funding cuts, with 91% of episodes tied to weakened control programs. The research highlights the need for sustained financial support to maintain gains in malaria control.
A recent study found that 91% of documented malaria resurgence events were attributed to weakened control programs, highlighting the need for sustained funding. The researchers emphasize the importance of continued investment in successful malaria control and elimination programs to maintain progress and save thousands of lives.
Researchers found a common protein target among severe malaria strains, which can be blocked by antibodies to prevent rosette formation and severe illness. The discovery may inform the development of new treatments or vaccines against life-threatening cases of malaria.
A new optical imaging system uses speckle imaging to measure differences in light bouncing off red blood cells, identifying cells infected with malaria parasites. The technique delivers results in under 30 minutes with high accuracy and low cost, promising to revolutionize malaria diagnosis.
A new study reveals that artemisinin-resistant malaria has emerged and increased rapidly along the Thailand-Myanmar border, with parasite clearance half-lives lengthening from 2.6 hours in 2001 to 3.7 hours in 2010. The proportion of slow-clearing infections increased from 0.6% in 2001 to 20% in 2010.
A recent study published in the Lancet found a critical point in global efforts to control and eliminate malaria due to artemisinin resistance in western Thailand. Researchers identified a major region of the malaria parasite genome associated with artemisinin resistance, raising hope for effective molecular markers to monitor its spread.
A genetics study identifies key genome region underlying artemisinin resistance in malaria parasite, increasing concern about its spread to India and Africa. The region may provide a tool for mapping resistance, but containing its spread is expected to be challenging.
Researchers from Notre Dame's Eck Institute for Global Health have developed a novel method using a gene chip to identify malaria drug resistance. This technology enables real-time response and modification of treatment strategies to combat emerging resistance.
A three-year clinical trial found that intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) reduced malaria infections among infants by up to 30%. The treatment regime protected against malaria for at least six weeks after treatment, showing an ongoing protective effect.
Researchers at Yale University have created a compound that prevents the growth of the malaria parasite within red blood cells. The compound, developed by Sidney Altman and his team, shows promise in combating drug-resistant strains of the disease, which kills over 1 million people annually.
Researchers are developing a climate model to predict malaria outbreaks in India by identifying areas at risk of heavy monsoon rainfall. The model aims to inform early intervention methods and prevent the spread of malaria, reducing economic and health impacts.
A new study published in Malaria Journal found that malaria prevention measures saved 850,000 child deaths in Africa between 2001 and 2010. The Lives Saved Tool model used by researchers estimated the impact of interventions such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets and pregnant women's malaria prevention.
A randomized trial found IPTi to be an effective preventive measure against malaria episodes in infants exposed to both falciparum and vivax malaria. The study showed a significant reduction in malaria cases with regular IPTi treatment during infancy.
A UBC researcher has developed a 'lab on a chip' device to measure red blood cell deformability caused by Plasmodium falciparum, a key step in treating malaria. The device enables precise measurement of stiffening red cells at various stages of infection.
Researchers have discovered a modified bone drug that can effectively kill the malaria parasite in infected mice, working at very low concentrations with no toxicity observed. The new compound, BPH-703, targets a key enzyme essential for the parasite's survival and immune evasion.
Researchers have discovered a vital player in the sexual phase of the malaria parasite's reproduction that could prove an effective target for new treatments. The new protein, CDC20, plays a crucial role in cell division and the development of male sex cells, essential for parasite transmission between humans and mosquitoes.
Researchers have completed the first comparative analysis of all available and in-development antimalarials, identifying potential transmission-blocking medicines. The study reveals that some existing antimalarials can target multiple stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle.
A study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that text messaging can improve malaria control in Africa by transmitting information from the periphery to health managers, as well as supporting patient management. The authors highlight six areas where text messaging interventions can have a significant impact.
Researchers compared 50 antimalarials against liver, sexual blood, and mosquito stages of human and nonhuman parasite species. The study provides a guide to help researchers identify promising antimalarial drugs for future treatments.
A research team led by Brandeis Professor Donald Shepard is investigating the cost-effectiveness of a new malaria prevention strategy involving a wallpaper-like liner technology. The technology has shown promising results in reducing malaria infections by 38 percent in Kenya.
The malaria parasite changes into a banana shape before sexual reproduction to evade the human immune system and survive in the circulation. This finding provides new targets for vaccine or drug development.
A study of 3,800 pregnancies has provided the most accurate evidence to date that malaria infection reduces early fetal growth. The research found that even single episodes of treated malaria can affect fetal head size at mid-pregnancy, but may not have a lasting impact on birth weight.
Researchers found a proactive test-and-treat strategy significantly reduced malaria prevalence, with a sixfold decrease in 2008-2009. The strategy also provided indirect protection to household members and could be targeted to hot spots for further reductions.