Malaria transmission and mosquito bites
African countries study finds that 87.5% of mosquito bites occur indoors, while bed-time bites account for 79.4%, highlighting the need for effective vector control measures.
Malaria
Articles tagged with Malaria
Portland State researchers receive $3.15M grant to develop drug to cure malaria
A team of Portland State University researchers has discovered a possible one-pill cure for malaria using a compound based on a natural red pigment. The compound has shown effectiveness in killing the malaria parasite in mice and human blood with a single low dose.
Botox cousin can reduce malaria in an environmentally friendly way
Researchers have discovered a neurotoxin, PMP1, that selectively targets malaria mosquitos, demonstrating a broader host spectrum than previously believed. This finding offers an innovative and environmentally friendly approach to reduce malaria prevalence.
Malaria hijacks your genes to invade your liver
A Duke University study identifies over 100 human genes co-opted by malaria parasites during the silent earlier stages of infection. This finding could lead to new treatments and prevent the disease from spreading.
Climate warming could increase malaria risk in cooler regions
Researchers found that malaria parasites develop faster in mosquitoes at lower temperatures than previously thought, increasing the risk of transmission to millions of people worldwide. The study suggests that even slight climate warming could lead to greater increases in transmission risk.
New high-resolution maps show how to defeat malaria
High-resolution maps show progress in defeating malaria, but also highlight areas of stagnation and increased burden, particularly in Venezuela and sub-Saharan Africa. The research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and sustained funding to overcome obstacles to eradication.
New assay detects patients' resistance to antimalarial drugs from a drop of blood
A new assay has been developed to detect patients' resistance to antimalarial drugs using whole blood, providing critical information quickly and efficiently in resource-limited settings. The technique eliminates DNA extraction steps, allowing for faster and more accurate assessment of genetic data associated with drug resistance.
Identification of protective antibodies may be key to effective malaria vaccine
Researchers at the University of Oxford have identified protective antibodies against malaria, which may lead to a highly effective vaccine. The study found that specific antibodies can block the malaria parasite's ability to bind to red blood cells.
Researchers identify human protein that aids development of malaria parasite
A human liver cell protein called CXCR4 helps Plasmodium parasites develop into forms capable of infecting red blood cells. Targeting this protein may be a way to block the parasite's life cycle and prevent malaria development.
Proteasome inhibitors show promise for drug-resistant malaria
Researchers identified two P. falciparum-selective proteasome inhibitors with potent antimalarial activity against drug-resistant parasites. The inhibitors exhibited low propensity for generating resistance and synergized with multiple antimalarial agents.
Clemson researchers gain ground in the race to cure widespread parasitic infection
Researchers at Clemson University have made significant progress in understanding the biology of Toxoplasma parasites, a human pathogen with high infection rates. By disrupting a key transporter, they were able to reduce the parasite's infectivity and provide insights into new targets for treatment.
A new way to block malaria transmission by targeting young contagious parasite forms
Researchers have identified novel antigens on infected red blood cells that trigger natural human antibody responses, reducing malaria transmission. The discovery provides a promising alternative route for preventing disease spread and offers new leads for developing effective vaccines.
Researchers synthesize antimalaria molecules found in a fungus from Nunavut
Researchers from Université Laval synthesized molecules discovered in a microscopic fungus from Nunavut, demonstrating their efficacy against malaria. The study found that the synthesized molecules, called mortiamides, stopped the growth of both parasite strains within 72 hours.
Diagnostic will help propel development of improved malaria tests, support surveillance
The Q-Plex Human Malaria Array measures multiple malaria antigens in a single sample, improving diagnosis sensitivity and supporting public health surveillance. This tool can help researchers develop more accurate RDTs and assess their performance.
Transgenic fungus rapidly killed malaria mosquitoes in West African study
A transgenic fungus engineered to deliver a toxin to mosquitoes safely reduced mosquito populations by over 99% in a simulated village setting. The fungus is selective and won't harm beneficial species like honeybees, making it a promising new approach to controlling malaria.
Foreign aid for public health bolsters America's 'soft power,' Stanford researchers find
A new study by Stanford researchers found that investing in health aid uniquely improves the US's standing abroad, increasing favorability ratings and soft power. The study analyzed data from over 260,000 respondents in 45 low-to-middle-income countries between 2002 and 2016.
Protection by the malaria vaccine: not only a matter of quantity but also of quality
A study by ISGlobal and colleagues found that the RTS,S vaccine's protective effect increases with the strength of antibodies, not just their quantity. Children tend to have better protection due to higher avidity responses.
Smart drug design to prevent malaria treatment resistance
Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute and Imperial College London have identified novel compounds that target a different part of the malaria parasite's enzyme, evading the same resistance mechanism. This study aimed to prevent malaria treatment resistance by studying how it evolves during drug development.
Seeking better detection for chronic malaria
A new study sheds light on the metabolic shifts that occur during chronic asymptomatic malaria infection, which can help develop more effective detection and treatment methods.
Global malaria spending $2 billion short of WHO target, stifling progress
A new study reveals a wide variation in global malaria spending across 106 countries, with development assistance plateauing since 2010. The World Health Organization's annual funding target of $6.6 billion is still not met, and more resources are needed to bridge the $2.3 billion gap.
USF receives new NIH grant to help eliminate malaria in Southeast Asia
Researchers will assess whether mass treatment with primaquine can prevent relapses of Plasmodium vivax malaria along the borders of Thailand and Myanmar. The project aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a preventive malaria treatment that could benefit up to 80% of the population.
US and Malawian partners implement malaria vaccine for children in Africa
Researchers are testing the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine, which provided partial protection against malaria in young children, in a pilot study in three countries. The goal is to vaccinate approximately 120,000 children annually and monitor its impact on preventing mortality from malaria.
Mass drug administrations can grant population protection against malaria
A new study suggests that mass drug administration (MDA) can reduce malaria infections in communities where participation is high. The findings highlight the importance of approaching communities in an engaging and appropriate manner to encourage their involvement in MDA.
Venezuela estimated to have had 1 million new malaria infections in 2018
The study highlights the devastating impact of Venezuela's socioeconomic and political crisis on public health, with a significant increase in malaria cases. The country is now facing an 'epidemic of unprecedented proportions', with diseases turning into epidemics due to the collapse of healthcare systems.
Identifying regions that would most benefit from an innovative strategy against malaria
A study by ISGlobal identifies West African regions where treating livestock with ivermectin can significantly impact malaria transmission. The analysis highlights the potential of this strategy to reduce malaria prevalence among children under 10 years of age and improve community health.
New model predicts substantial reduction of malaria transmitting mosquitoes
A new model predicts substantial reduction of malaria transmitting mosquitoes in West Africa by introducing genetically modified male mosquitoes with a driving-Y chromosome. The approach, which targets the most important species of malaria mosquitoes, has the potential to reduce populations and ultimately eliminate disease transmission.
Dramatic housing transformation in sub-Saharan Africa revealed for first time
A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that improved housing prevalence doubled from 11% to 23% in sub-Saharan Africa between 2000 and 2015. Despite this progress, 53 million urban Africans still lived in slum conditions in 2015.
Widely used malaria treatment to prevent malaria in pregnant women
The study found that the widely used antimalarial sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is no longer effective in preventing malaria in areas with high levels of resistance. In areas where more than 37% of parasites carry six mutations, the effectiveness of SP appears to be fully compromised. The researchers are calling for further investiga...
Protecting homes with netting window screens can reduce malaria parasite infection
A study by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine found that complete window screening coverage was associated with a 92% reduction in malaria prevalence. Mosquito biting rates were also reduced, highlighting the potential impact of simple interventions on malaria transmission.
Genetics Society of America awards 2019 Thomas Hunt Morgan Medal to Daniel Hartl
Daniel Hartl receives the 2019 Thomas Hunt Morgan Medal for his influential contributions to experimental and theoretical genetics research, combining mathematical models with cutting-edge techniques. His work explains how DNA mutations are passed through generations, influencing species divergence.
Tracing the genetic origins of insecticide resistance in malaria-transmitting mosquitoes
Researchers have pinpointed a single genetic alteration that confers resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in malaria-transmitting mosquitoes. The study provides a molecular diagnostic tool for detecting metabolic resistance and informs efforts to understand its spread across Africa.
The Lancet: Mosquito-killing drug reduced malaria episodes by a fifth among children, according to randomised trial
A randomized trial of ivermectin mass administration in children aged five or younger shows a 20% reduction in malaria episodes without adverse events. The study suggests ivermectin could be a useful tool in disease reduction to combat residual transmission.
Anti-malarial shows promise in human clinical study
The study demonstrated that DSM265 can clear low-level Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia with a single oral dose. A companion drug is needed to prevent development of resistance and advance the goal of eradicating malaria.
To slow malaria, cure mosquitoes with drug-treated bed nets
Researchers have developed a method to use atovaquone-coated mosquito bed nets to cure mosquitoes and prevent malaria spread. The treatment could be more effective and less harmful than current methods.
BOHEMIA will develop a new vector control strategy to kill malaria-transmitting mosquitoes
A new vector control strategy is being developed by BOHEMIA, which uses ivermectin mass administration to kill malaria-transmitting mosquitoes. The project will conduct two clinical trials in Tanzania and Mozambique to evaluate the efficacy, safety, social science, and environmental impact of this approach.
New research suggests earlier emergence of malaria in Africa
Researchers found genetic evidence of malaria's emergence in Sub-Saharan Africa dating back to at least 20,000 years ago. The study challenges the long-held assumption that agriculture led to the spread of malaria.
Medicating mosquitoes to fight malaria
Researchers found that treating bed nets with atovaquone can effectively reduce malaria transmission and mitigate insecticide resistance. The study showed that mosquitoes were completely blocked from developing Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria.
The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Experts warn of a surge in vector-borne diseases as humanitarian crisis in Venezuela worsens
Experts warn of a surge in vector-borne diseases as Venezuela's humanitarian crisis worsens, with malaria cases increasing by 359% since 2010. The crisis is also leading to a resurgence of other diseases like Chagas disease and dengue, threatening public health gains in the country.
Mosquitoes that carry malaria may have been doing so 100 million years ago
Scientists have discovered a new genus and species of mosquito in Myanmar amber dating back 100 million years, indicating that anopheline mosquitoes were present during this time period. This finding sheds light on the history of malaria and may offer clues on how its modern-day life cycle evolved.
Genome scientists develop novel approaches to studying widespread form of malaria
Researchers analyzed gene expression profiles of P. vivax malaria patients to understand transmission and treatment response. The study revealed complex transmission dynamics and differences in how the parasite responds to chloroquine treatment.
LSTM receives grant to accelerate evaluation of next-generation malaria control tools
The ESSENTIALS project aims to develop robust entomological indicators for assessing the public health value of new vector control tools, reducing the need for lengthy trials.
Genome structure of malaria parasites linked to virulence
The study reveals that malaria parasite genomes are shaped by parasite-specific gene families and strongly correlate with virulence. The researchers identified unique features in the organization of gene families involved in antigenic variation, which enables high virulence in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium knowlesi.
Male birth control for the malaria parasite
Researchers at Penn State have identified a complex of proteins crucial for the maturation of the malaria parasite's sexual stage, which is required for transmission to mosquitoes. Disrupting this complex inhibits the parasite's ability to mature and infect mosquitoes, offering a new tool in the fight against malaria.
New vaccine offers fresh take on malaria fight
A new malaria vaccine using a cytomegalovirus-based platform has shown promising results, reducing the parasite's release by 75-80% in infected rhesus macaques. The vaccine could offer lifelong protection against malaria, a disease that claims hundreds of millions of lives each year.
To halt malaria transmission, more research focused on human behavior needed
A recent review article suggests that understanding human behavior is crucial to preventing malaria transmission. Researchers found that while bed nets have been effective, they only work when people sleep under them, and there are gaps in knowledge about when and where people are exposed to malaria-transmitting mosquitoes at night.
New study raises hopes of eradication of malaria
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet reveal altered mosquito behavior and parasite selection as major obstacles to malaria eradication. The study shows a 96% decline in malaria incidence in Zanzibar, but highlights the need for new strategies to overcome challenges and achieve elimination.
Mosquito known to transmit malaria has been detected in Ethiopia for the first time
A type of mosquito known to transmit malaria has been detected in Ethiopia for the first time, posing a public health concern. The Anopheles stephensi species was identified in Kebri Dehar, an eastern Ethiopian city, and its presence may lead to an emergence of malaria in new regions.
Study: 'Post-normal' science requires unorthodox communication strategies
A new report highlights the need for effective communication in addressing 'post-normal' science technologies, such as gene drives, which pose a challenge to science journalists. The technology has the potential to reduce malaria deaths but also raises concerns about safety and regulation.
Parasites from patients with cerebral malaria stick preferentially in their brains
Researchers found that infected red blood cells from cerebral malaria patients bind more strongly to brain-derived cells than those from uncomplicated malaria patients. This suggests that specific PfEMP1 proteins on the infected red blood cells allow for efficient binding to brain vessels, a key feature of cerebral malaria.
Danish malaria vaccine passes test in humans
A team of researchers from the University of Copenhagen has successfully completed a phase one clinical trial of their malaria vaccine, demonstrating its safety and ability to induce the desired antibody response in humans. The vaccine is now poised for further testing and potential use in vulnerable populations.
Pyronaridine-artesunate for treating uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Researchers found pyronaridine-artesunate to be as effective as currently used artemisinin-based combination therapies for treating uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Mild liver injuries were observed in some patients but no severe damage was reported. The treatment holds promise for areas with rising artemisinin resistance.
Ground breaking new saliva diagnostic test to help eliminate malaria
ERADA's Saliva-based Malaria Asymptomatic and Asexual Rapid Test (SMAART) detects a unique biomarker from female parasites circulating in an infected individual. Early detection of malaria is crucial to eradication, as carriers are the reservoir that leads to infection and transmission.
Singapore researchers develop gold-complexed ferrocenyl phosphines as potent antimalarials
Researchers at SUTD and NTU developed ferrocene-based molecules that impair malaria parasite's metabolic function, leading to parasite death. G3, a gold complexed ferrocinyl phosphine derivative, demonstrated potent antimalarial activity against standard and drug-resistant strains.
Killing the liver-stage malaria parasite with baculovirus: a drug discovery approach
Researchers at Kanazawa University have discovered that a baculovirus can completely eliminate liver-stage malaria parasites in mice. The study suggests a new approach to developing non-haemolytic single-dose alternative drugs for P. vivax treatment, potentially reducing the risk of infection and side effects.
Simple and rapid test for Ebola diagnosis could improve outbreak control
A new Ebola diagnostic test developed by David Sebba and colleagues offers a simple solution for detecting the disease in low-resource settings. The point-of-care test can distinguish between Ebola and other endemic diseases like Lassa fever and malaria within 30 minutes.
Pregnant women, young children most likely to use bed nets to prevent malaria
A new study by Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs finds that pregnant women and young children in sub-Saharan Africa are the most likely family members to sleep under bed nets to prevent malaria. The study suggests that providing enough bed nets can reduce age and gender disparities in net use, but highlights concerns abou...
Half a million tests and many mosquitoes later, new buzz about a malaria prevention drug
Researchers developed a new approach to prevent malaria by targeting the parasite at an earlier stage in its lifecycle. They tested over 500,000 chemical compounds and identified 631 promising candidates that could form the basis for new drugs.
BU study: Modified malaria drug proven effective at inhibiting Ebola
Researchers discovered that derivatives of amodiaquine can effectively block Ebola virus infection, with modified compounds showing improved potency and reduced toxicity. The findings offer a new therapeutic approach to treating patients infected with Ebola.
Blood-sucking flies have been spreading malaria for 100 million years
A recent study of amber-preserved blood-sucking insects and ticks reveals that malaria-causing microorganisms date back at least 100 million years, with evidence of pathogens carried by ancient vectors found in fossilized amber from around the world.
A new aspect in Plasmodium falciparum life cycle revealed: 'Express' sexual conversion
A new study reveals that Plasmodium falciparum parasites can directly convert from their asexual to sexual form without an additional replication cycle, increasing the parasite's survival and transmission capabilities. This finding provides important information on the malaria parasite's lifecycle and its transmission to mosquitoes.