Malaria's weakest link
Researchers discover that malaria parasite relies on host cell signaling pathways to proliferate. A class of cancer-fighting drugs targeting these pathways can effectively kill the parasite.
Malaria
Articles tagged with Malaria
Genetically modified fungi kill malaria-causing parasites in mosquitoes
A new study by NIH-funded researchers has developed genetically modified fungi that can kill malaria-causing parasites in mosquitoes, significantly reducing parasite development. The transgenic fungi block the development of malaria parasites in mosquitoes, preventing transmission to humans.
New study shows ability of transgenic fungi to combat malaria and other bug-borne diseases
A University of Maryland-led team has developed a transgenic fungal approach that targets malaria-causing sporozoites, reducing disease transmission by at least five-fold. The method uses a fungus naturally attacking mosquitoes and inserts genes for human anti-malarial antibodies or scorpion toxins.
Floating spores kill malaria mosquito larvae
Researchers have developed a method to disperse pathogenic fungi as a means of preventing malaria spread, using synthetic oil to increase dispersal effectiveness. The fungi cause muscardine disease in mosquito larvae, killing up to 50% more larvae than untreated spores and reducing pupation levels.
University of South Florida and Draper team to create advanced devices for testing malaria drugs
The University of South Florida is collaborating with Draper Laboratory to develop human liver models and long-term continuous culture systems for P. vivax malaria. This research aims to accelerate the discovery of new drugs or vaccines, targeting the dormant liver forms of the parasite.
IPTc found to reduce prevalence of malaria infection in children by up to 85 percent
A combination of IPTc and insecticide-treated bednets can substantially reduce the incidence of severe malaria in children, with a protective efficacy of up to 70%. IPTc also reduced the prevalence of malaria infection at the end of the transmission season by 73%.
3 trials of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in children
Two trials found that intermittent preventive treatment provided substantial additional protection against clinical malaria, severe malaria, and hospital admissions. A third trial demonstrated the effectiveness of community-based delivery by volunteer village health workers in rural areas.
Malaria protection for pregnant women in Africa remains inadequate
In sub-Saharan Africa, an estimated 32 million pregnant women are at risk of malaria every year. Despite national policies to reduce and control malaria during pregnancy, coverage rates of two key interventions, insecticide-treated nets and intermittent preventive treatment, remain inadequate.
malERA: a research agenda for malaria eradication
The MalERA initiative outlines priority research areas for eight thematic areas, including basic science and enabling technologies; drugs; vaccines; vector control; health systems; and more. The collection identifies common research priorities across themes, providing a roadmap for malaria eradication.
Protection of pregnant women against malaria still inadequate
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that malaria protection methods for pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa are underutilized. Despite WHO policy, estimated coverage of intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) is only 25% and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are used by just 17% of pregnant women at risk.
Malaria parasite caught red-handed invading blood cells
Researchers use OMX 3D SIM super resolution microscopy to visualize malaria parasite invasion, revealing key molecular and cellular events. This technology may pave the way for developing new treatments for malaria.
Leading candidate vaccine shows long-lasting protection against malaria in young African children
The RTS,S/AS01E vaccine provides sustained protection against malaria for at least 15 months after vaccination, making it a promising public-health intervention. The vaccine works by attacking the malaria parasite in its early stages, preventing infection of red blood cells and serious symptoms.
New study examines immunity in emerging species of a major mosquito carrer of malaria
Researchers found a genetic difference in TEP1 gene conferring resistance to human malaria parasites in one of two emerging Anopheles gambiae species, M and S. The study suggests that this resistance could impact malaria transmission efforts.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
Malaria-infected cells stiffen, block blood flow
Malaria-infected red blood cells stiffen up to 50 times more than healthy ones, blocking capillaries and impeding nutrient and oxygen delivery. This deformation changes blood viscosity and flow, potentially leading to severe organ damage.
UIC researcher unveils new approach to blocking malaria transmission
Researchers focus on disrupting FLVCR protein in mosquitoes to block Plasmodium transmission, a crucial step in preventing malaria spread. By targeting this protein, they hope to develop a vaccine to stimulate an immune response and prevent the disease.
In Lancet: Artesunate suppositories are cost-effective intervention for severe childhood malaria
A study led by Boston University School of Public Health researcher Yesim Tozan found that giving emergency artesunate suppositories to children with suspected severe malaria before referral improves management and is cost-effective. The intervention could avert 37 child deaths and 967 disability-adjusted life-years over five years.
Giving rectal artesunate to children with severe malaria is a cost-effective life-saving intervention
A modelling study shows that rectal artesunate can avert 967 DALYs at a cost of $77 per DALY averted, making it a critical stop-gap for treating severe childhood malaria in areas with poor access to healthcare. The intervention has the potential to improve management of sick children at the household and community level.
IVCC develops new public health insecticides
The Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) has received a $50 million grant to develop new insecticides for malaria and other neglected tropical diseases. The new funding will support the development of three new Active Ingredients for public health insecticides by 2020.
Researchers link cerebral malaria to epilepsy, behavior disorders
Researchers at Michigan State University have linked cerebral malaria to epilepsy and behavioral disorders in African children, affecting hundreds of thousands. The study reveals that acute seizures and extreme fevers are key risk factors for these disorders.
Arizona State receives Gates Foundation Grant for prevention of malaria
Arizona State University has received a $100 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop long-acting insect repellents for malaria prevention. The project aims to create skin-bonding repellents that can provide continuous protection against mosquitoes for two to three weeks.
Gates Foundation grants awarded to scientists in Portugal for their innovative research in malaria
Two Portuguese researchers are awarded $100,000 to develop a novel approach to combat malaria. By harnessing the power of human antibodies against gut flora, they aim to prevent infection immediately after mosquito bites. The project's innovative method has the potential to revolutionize malaria prevention and eradication efforts.
Hebrew University-developed method for control of malaria applied in Africa
A Hebrew University-developed insect control method, applied in Mali, demonstrates a significant decline in malaria-bearing mosquitoes. The Attractive Toxic Sugar Bait Method (ATSB) significantly reduced mosquito populations and is considered a powerful tool for controlling malaria vectors.
Major clinical trial prompts call for change to treatment guidelines for severe malaria worldwide
A recent clinical trial found that artesunate reduces deaths from severe malaria by 22.5% compared to quinine, and is associated with fewer complications such as seizures and low blood sugar in children. The findings have prompted a call for change to treatment guidelines worldwide.
UC Riverside cell biologist to investigate how malaria parasite multiplies in red blood cells
Dr. Karine Le Roch is investigating how malaria parasite multiplies in red blood cells using a $1.7 million NIH grant. The goal is to develop more effective strategies against this devastating disease, with potential new drug strategies also being explored.
Global map of the sickle cell gene supports 'malaria hypothesis'
The study confirms the 'malaria hypothesis', which suggests that the sickle cell gene provides protection against malaria, allowing it to survive and thrive in areas of intense transmission. The global map shows a significant geographical overlap between the frequency of the sickle cell gene and malaria prevalence.
Shrinking the malaria map
The 'malaria map' has shrunk by over 150 years, with 32 countries nearing elimination and many more in controlled low-endemic states. The fight against malaria involves two main parasite species, <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> and <i>Plasmodium vivax</i>, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic tests and radical treatment options.
Malaria elmination, worthy, challenging and just possible: But only with a vaccine
The Lancet Series on Malaria Elimination concludes that a vaccine is crucial for successful elimination, but current efforts are hindered by high transmission rates, poor health systems, and lack of leadership. The series highlights the need for balance, humility, and rigorous analysis to pursue malaria elimination.
With scientific ingenuity, political will, coordination and leadership, elimination from the margins inward will continue
The Lancet authors emphasize the need for a three-part strategy to achieve malaria eradication, including aggressive control in high-risk areas, elimination from the margins inward, and research and development. They also highlight the importance of strengthening guidance and support for countries aiming to eliminate malaria.
Malaria elimination will require greater and more predictable financing; the economic benefits of elimination may justify this increased cost
Eliminating malaria will cost more than controlling the disease, with only moderate cost savings expected in one country. The authors suggest a paradigm shift in international funding is needed to support elimination efforts.
Latin America in best position to elimate malaria while elimination is least feasible in sub-Saharan Africa
Countries with low risk and stable health systems have higher feasibility for malaria elimination. Latin America is in the best position to achieve this, while sub-Saharan African countries face substantial difficulties due to political instability, weak health systems, and high transmission rates.
Researchers use math, maps to plot malaria elimination plan
Researchers used mathematical models and maps to estimate malaria elimination feasibility in countries with the deadliest form of the disease. The data suggest that Plasmodium falciparum malaria could be eliminated in most areas in 10-15 years if transmission is reduced by 90%.
Elimination cannot be business as usual: All interventions need scale-up, reservoirs of infections must be drained and emphasis placed on prevention of cases imported from other countries
Countries seeking to eliminate malaria must adopt a new approach, prioritizing proactive case detection, treatment with effective drugs like primaquine, and preventive measures. Effective elimination strategies are needed despite operational challenges and high costs.
International malaria research consortium tackles deadly disease
A global effort combines technologies and expertise from Canada and India to develop new classes of antimalarial drugs, targeting three key malaria targets. The program also harnesses novel technologies for slow-release medication delivery, potentially leading to a 'one pill cure' and reducing drug resistance.
Genetic markers offer new clues about how malaria mosquitoes evade eradication
A high-resolution microarray has shed new light on Anopheles gambiae populations, revealing the genes that enable mosquitoes to adapt to insecticides and other preventive measures. This breakthrough provides powerful new insights into the genetics of malaria vectors, supporting public health efforts to contain and eliminate the disease.
Malaria research begins to bite
Scientists at The University of Nottingham have pinpointed 72 molecular switches controlling the malaria parasite's three key stages. Their research, funded by Wellcome Trust and MRC, is a significant breakthrough in finding cheap and effective solutions to stop malaria transmission.
Malaria-transmitting mosquito evolving, NIH grantees find
Researchers funded by NIH have found that Anopheles gambiae is evolving into two distinct species, M and S, with differing traits and behaviors. These emerging species may alter disease transmission patterns, requiring new prevention strategies.
Malarial mosquitoes are evolving into new species, say researchers
Two strains of the Anopheles gambiae mosquito are becoming genetically distinct, potentially rendering current control methods ineffective against one strain. The research highlights the need for targeted strategies to monitor and adapt to these genetic changes.
Study shows malaria deaths in India massively underestimated by WHO; figures for adult malaria deaths worldwide now need urgent revision
A new study reveals that malaria deaths in India are 13 times higher than currently estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO). The research suggests that approximately 205,000 malaria deaths occur annually in India before age 70, with a cumulative probability of death from malaria at 1.8% for individuals under 70 years old.
Image of mosquito's heart wins first place in Nikon's 'Small World' photomicrography competition
A fluorescent image of the mosquito heart, taken by Vanderbilt graduate student Jonas King, has won first place in Nikon's 'Small World' 2010 photomicrography competition. The image showcases the unique structure and function of the mosquito's circulatory system.
Scientists pinpoint gene linked to drug resistance in malaria
Researchers have identified a gene that enables malaria parasites to resist artemisinin treatment, leading to potential development of new drugs and control strategies.
Malaria funding worldwide 60 percent short of figure required, but 21 countries, including 12 in Africa, are now receiving adequate or near-adequate funds
Global malaria funding has increased by 166% since 2007 but falls 60% short of the required $4.9 billion for comprehensive control in 2010. Meanwhile, 21 countries, including 12 in Africa, have received adequate or near-adequate funds to implement effective malaria interventions.
New technique uncovers hidden insecticide resistance
Researchers at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine develop a new technique to detect and monitor insecticide resistance in Anopheles funestus mosquitoes. The technique involves forcing female mosquitoes to lay eggs, which are then reared into adult mosquitoes to study levels of resistance to pyrethroid/DDT insecticides.
Malaria's newest pathway into human cells identified
Researchers at The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have discovered a new pathway used by malaria parasites to infect human cells, providing a potential vaccine target. Blocking both the glycophorin and CR1 pathways results in a 90% decrease in parasite infection, suggesting an effective vaccine could significantly reduce malaria cases.
SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2010
Country ownership key to achieving the Millennium Development Goals, says minister of health for Ethiopia
Minister Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus advocates for 'country ownership' to maximize development aid impact. Countries must have clear vision and control over resources, allowing them to tailor proven practices to their specific circumstances.
Community-based treatment of malaria, pneumonia could save lives, BU study finds
A BU study shows that empowering community health workers with a rapid diagnostic test and antibiotics can significantly increase the proportion of appropriately timed antibiotic treatments for non-severe pneumonia and decrease inappropriate use of anti-malarials. The study found a five-fold increase in timely treatment of pneumonia.
Community health workers can effectively manage children with malaria and pneumonia
A study by Kojo Yeboah-Antwi found that community health workers can safely provide integrated management of pneumonia and malaria to communities. The intervention resulted in a significant increase in appropriately-timed antibiotic treatment for non-severe pneumonia.
European Union could create incentive for new drug treatments
A European Union version of the US 'priority review voucher' system could incentivize pharmaceutical companies to develop treatments for neglected diseases. The system would offer accelerated regulatory review, pricing, and reimbursement decisions in exchange for developing a treatment for a neglected disease.
Study reveals best drug combinations for treating malaria in Myanmar (Burma)
Researchers found that adding primaquine to fixed-dose artemisinin combination treatments significantly reduces gametocyte carriage, a key factor in malaria transmission. The artesunate-mefloquine regimen showed the highest cure rate and lowest rates of reinfection.
New study suggests changes in diagnosis and treatment of malaria
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to the antibiotic clindamycin in malaria parasites. The findings suggest that current diagnostic tests may be inadequate and highlight the need for new treatment strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in malaria.
Drug-resistant malaria suggests a health policy change for pregnant women and infants
A new study found that a Peruvian parasite population had significant genetic instability near the telomere, leading to missed diagnoses from rapid diagnostic tests. The researchers also identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to clindamycin, a commonly administered drug for treating malaria in pregnant women and infants.
Novartis and collaborators discover novel antimalarial drug candidate
Researchers have discovered a novel compound, spiroindolone NITD609, effective against both strains of the malaria parasite and shows pharmacological properties compatible with a once-daily dosing regimen.
Team discovers new type of anti-malarial compound
A research team led by Scripps Research Institute has discovered a promising new drug candidate to treat malaria, which shows an attractive safety profile and potential for treatment in a single oral dose. The study's findings provide hope for the development of new treatments against this deadly disease.
NIH-sponsored research yields promising malaria drug candidate
A chemical compound, NITD609, has shown promising results in clearing malaria parasites from mice after a single oral dose. The compound targets a parasite protein not attacked by existing malaria drugs and has desirable features for a new malaria therapy.
JCI online early table of contents: Sept. 1, 2010
Researchers have identified a way to preserve nerve cells in a rat model of stroke and developed a modified adenovirus vaccine that provides protection against malaria in mice. The vaccine targets a protein called TRPC6, which is involved in protecting nerve cells from death after a stroke.
Mosquitoes use several different kinds of odor sensors to track human prey
Researchers have characterized two families of molecular odorant sensors in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, which mediate critical behaviors like host location. The discovery suggests that these mosquitoes use multiple olfactory signaling pathways to detect human-derived odors.
Mosquitoes use several different kinds of odor sensors to track human prey
Scientists at Vanderbilt University have identified a second set of olfactory receptors in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae, which responds to key human odorants. This discovery may help explain the effectiveness of DEET repellents and provide new insights into developing more effective lures and controls for malaria.
Combined data for estimating insecticide-treated bed net coverage in Africa
Researchers estimate ITN coverage in 44 African countries between 2000 and 2008, with some countries scaling up coverage to over 60%. However, others, such as Nigeria, remain undercovered. The study suggests increased development assistance for health is related to improved ITN coverage.
Scientists develop new drug treatment for malaria
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have created a synthetic drug for malaria treatment that is more potent than naturally derived artemisinin. The new drug's stability makes it last longer in the body, reducing the chance of parasite re-appearance and making it more cost-effective to mass produce.
'Needle-free' intervention as natural vaccine against malaria
A study found that infection with malaria parasites during antibiotic treatment developed a vaccine-like immunity against re-infection. Antibiotics can prevent malaria parasite replication in the liver, allowing the immune system to mount a robust defense against future infections.
SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 11, 2010
High malaria transmission areas remain a problem for elimination
A modeling study found that high malaria transmission areas in Africa require additional tools beyond current interventions like artemisinin-combination therapy and bednets. Targeting outdoor-biting mosquitoes with new strategies may be necessary for achieving elimination in these areas.