Antibodies that inhibit erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium falciparum and their role in protective immunity [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof James Beeson (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Alan Cowman

Brief description Malaria continues to be a leading cause of death and disease globally, resulting in up to 3 million deaths annually, mainly among children. After repeated episodes of malaria, children that survive develop immune responses that protect them against further episodes. Currently, it is not well understood how these protective immune responses work. Malaria parasites infect red blood cells and multiply inside them, leading to the symptoms and serious complications of malaria. Antibodies that block the entry of parasites into red blood cells have been found in adults who are immune to malaria, and can be stimulated by certain vaccines, but little is known about this immune response and whether it is effective in protecting against malaria. Many investigators have focussed on the detection of antibodies, but we will focus on the function of antibodies in blocking parasite entry into red blood cells, thereby blocking parasite growth. We will examine how these antibodies develop among children at risk of malaria living in a region of Kenya where malaria is a major cause of death, and whether these antibodies protect children against malarial illness. Malaria parasites produce a variety of different proteins that enable them to stick and then enter red blood cells. We will identify the main proteins that antibodies target to block malaria growth. We will also determine whether variations in the proteins produced by malaria are used to avoid immune responses. Results from these studies will advance our understanding of how the immune system protects against malaria. With this knowledge, vaccines can be designed that will target essential malaria proteins, and reduce or prevent malaria infection and illness.

Funding Amount $AUD 389,250.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant