Deadly malaria strain gene identified by researchers in Kingdom

In collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, researchers at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Jeddah have identified a gene responsible for the reproduction of the most dangerous strain of malaria.

The researchers have discovered that the gene PfAP2-MRP is responsible for the multiplication of Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites inside red blood cells, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

By disrupting the function of this gene, the parasites cease their usual multiplication, thereby alleviating the symptoms of the disease and restricting its spread.

Dr. Ashraf Dada, head of the department of pathology and laboratory medicine at KFSHRC in Jeddah and the lead researcher, said: “The discovery paves the way for the development of more effective drugs to treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria, which is considered the most dangerous among its peers.

This disease is responsible for the death of over 500,000 people annually worldwide, the SPA said.

Dada said that the research enhances the scientific community’s understanding of how the disease develops and the mechanisms of its response to the human immune system. “This strengthens efforts to combat the most deadly and widespread type of parasite causing malaria on the African continent.”

Researchers from the UK, US and India were part of the team at KFSHRC. They utilized advanced laboratory techniques to analyze and identify the molecules and genes of proteins.

This discovery emerged as a result of collaboration between KFSHRC and KAUST aimed at conducting research that contributes to exploring innovative methods to enhance the diagnosis of microbes, germs, and parasites in general, as well as preventing and treating the diseases they cause.

KFSHRC, recognized globally for its advanced medical research and education center, was ranked 20th out of 250 worldwide and topped the Middle East and Africa in Brand Finance’s 2023 ranking of healthcare institutions.

Collaborating with key local, regional, and international partners, KFSHRC aims to advance medical technologies and enhance healthcare on a global scale.