Proteome-wide mapping of immune features onto Plasmodium protein three-dimensional structures
March 12, 2018
Humoral immune responses against the malaria parasite are an important component of a protective immune response. Antibodies are often directed…
Age-related clinical spectrum of Plasmodium knowlesi malaria and predictors of severity
March 5, 2018
Background Plasmodium knowlesi is increasingly reported in Southeast Asia, but prospective studies of its clinical spectrum in children and comparison with…
Increasingly inbred and fragmented populations of Plasmodium vivax associated with the eastward decline in malaria transmission across the Southwest Pacific
January 26, 2018
This paper describes the changing patterns of malaria parasite (Plasmodium vivax) population genetic structure with declining transmission across the Southwest Pacific. The work has identified specific parameters that can be measured to track elimination progress.
Artemether-lumefantrine versus chloroquine for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium knowlesi malaria: an open-label randomized controlled trial (CAN KNOW)
January 15, 2018
Background Plasmodium knowlesi is reported increasingly across Southeast Asia and is the most common cause of malaria in Malaysia. No randomized…
Nationwide genetic surveillance of Plasmodium vivax in Papua New Guinea reveals heterogeneous transmission dynamics and routes of migration among subdivided populations
December 5, 2017
This research used genetic surveillance to map the geographic distribution of malaria parasite populations (Plasmodium vivax) throughout Papua New Guinea, classifying the transmission scenario in different regions and defining relatively isolated populations and routes of migration that could be targeted by control strategies.
Declining malaria transmission differentially impacts the maintenance of humoral immunity to Plasmodium falciparum in children
October 17, 2017
A decline in malaria transmission is associated with an overall reduction in naturally acquired immunity. However, loss of immunity is not universal; some key functional immune responses and antibodies to specific targets are better maintained and these may continue to provide some long-term protection against malaria
A dynamic stress model explains the delayed drug effect in artemisinin treatment of Plasmodium falciparum
October 9, 2017
We demonstrated for the first time how to account for drug-accumulation effects in models of the host-response to malaria, with significant implications for our understanding of antimalarial efficacy and resistance.
A mechanistic model quantifies artemisinin-induced parasite growth retardation in blood-stage Plasmodium falciparum infection
October 7, 2017
We introduced a mathematical model of artemisin-induced growth-retardation, validated against short drug pulse in vitro experiments of drug action. Combined with new models of drug-accumulation effects, this work provides a key element for improved PK-PD models for malaria.
Disrupting assembly of the inner membrane complex blocks Plasmodium falciparum sexual stage development
October 6, 2017
The sexual stages of P. falciparum adopt a unique crescent shape that is essential for transmission via mosquitoes. We provide 3D views of the elongating parasite at unprecedented resolution. Inducible genetic disruption reveals proteins that are essential for gametocyte elongation and survival. This work points to potential targets for the development of transmission-blocking therapies.
Quantifying the association between malaria in pregnancy and stillbirth: A systematic review and meta-analysis
September 26, 2017
This landmark study estimated ~200,000 stillbirths are caused annually by malaria and that if malaria is treated the risk of stillbirth reduces. This study informed allocation of resources and preventive treatment guidelines for malaria in pregnancy. Presented at the WHO Evidence Review Group Meeting: Malaria in Pregnancy, 2017.