Quantifying the spread of Plasmodium falciparum malaria

The malaria parasite gametocytes are the precursors of male and female gametes in the human host, formed through the developmental switch from asexual replication in erythrocytes. Gametocytes differentiate into male and female gametes in mosquito’s midgut, and after complete sexual reproduction, mature sporozoites accumulate in the vector’s salivary gland, ready to be inoculated into a new host. Many individuals in the endemic areas harbour low but transmissible gametocyte densities.

A major challenge for malaria elimination is its phenomenally efficient spread through sexual stage parasites (gametocytes). Many individuals in endemic settings harbour low but transmissible gametocyte densities. It is currently unclear how gametocyte density translates into the likelihood that an infected mosquito gives rise to secondary infections, who drive malaria transmission at population level and how anti-gametocyte immunity affects gametocyte production and infectivity.

This project will profoundly improve understanding of the production and infectivity of gametocytes and the epidemiological impact of human immune responses that influence these processes. The work in different African settings will provide a major leap forward in understanding the human infectious reservoir for malaria and has direct implications for elimination.

European research council project details

Combination of Interventions
Genetics and Genomics
Measurement of Transmission

Jul 2020 — Jun 2025

$2.3M

The Netherlands