Last Updated: 14/08/2025
Target identification of novel anti-malarial compounds using experimental evolution and genomics
Objectives
The main aim of this study is to identify targets for several of highly active anti-malarial compounds using in vitro experimental evolution of P. falciparum in the presence of these compounds, followed by whole-genome sequencing and experimental validation.
International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), India
Malaria causes ~600,000 deaths a year, with children under age 5 years and pregnant women particularly affected. There is an urgent need to develop novel drugs against malaria to counteract the emergence of resistant strains, as well as to create more effective drugs for global malaria eradication. A public-private endeavor screening millions of compounds in cell-based assays has identified hundreds of highly active anti-malarial compounds, which have been made available free of charge in Open Access Malaria Box. However, the major bottleneck in the further development of drugs from these compounds is the lack of information regarding their target. The feasibility and validity of this approach in identifying drug targets in P. falciparum has previously been demonstrated. The lowering of the cost of sequencing means that it is now possible to conduct such a study for a large number of compounds. The researchers believe that the targets identified from this project will significantly accelerate drug development in malaria as well as other parasitic diseases.
Aug 2016 — Jul 2021
$260,747
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