Last Updated: 02/12/2024

A novel approach to identify the specific antibody characteristics important for protection from malaria in pregnant women

Objectives

To determine which naturally-acquired or vaccine induced antibodies protect pregnant women from malaria, and how variation in VAR2CSA sequences affects this protection.

Principal Investigators / Focal Persons

Stephen Rogerson
Elizabeth Aitken
Amy Chung

Rationale and Abstract

Antibody protects against malaria, but the specific characteristics of protective antibody are unknown. Pregnant women lack antibody to parasite protein called VAR2CSA, explaining their malaria susceptibility. Using samples from vaccine trials and clinical studies in pregnant women, and a ‘Systems Serology’ approach, we will determine which naturally-acquired or vaccine induced antibodies protect pregnant women from malaria, and how variation in VAR2CSA sequences affects this protection.

Date

Jan 2018 — Dec 2021

Total Project Funding

$728,162

Project Site

Australia

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