Discovering targets of human immunity that block malaria transmission

Despite numerous international efforts, the malaria burden has remained unchanged in recent years. With the emergence of drug-resistant parasites and control measures that are only partially effective, vaccines for sustained malaria elimination are urgently needed. While most vaccine research is directed at efforts to prevent clinical illness, this research aims to develop successful vaccines or other strategies that block the transmission of malaria parasites to mosquitoes, known as transmission-blocking interventions. 

During malaria, parasites replicate in the bloodstream causing clinical illness, which can be severe and fatal. Some parasites develop into specific transmissible forms that are taken up by a feeding mosquito, where they replicate, rapidly transmitting parasites throughout a population. Interestingly, individuals can develop unique antibodies to these transmissible forms after repeated infections. When a mosquito bites, these antibodies are ingested by mosquitoes and can prevent malaria parasite development within the mosquito and prevent transmission within populations. However, little is known about the specific targets and function of these antibodies; key knowledge of which are vital for the advancement of transmission-blocking vaccines as a much needed new strategy to support malaria elimination. 

The aim of this project is to identify key targets and mechanisms of antibodies that block malaria transmission to prioritise lead candidates for pre-clinical vaccine evaluation. The project will utilise detailed human studies, including cohorts of individuals who were experimentally infected with malaria or naturally exposed to malaria in endemic settings. Laboratory techniques will include malaria parasite culture, functional antibody assays, mosquito feeding assays and flow cytometry. The project will also link with our malaria vaccine program using mRNA and recombinant protein vaccine technologies. The project will be tailored to meet the students’ interests, education and training background.