UP Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control

Children under the age of five years are most vulnerable to malaria.
Teaching children about malaria can be fun and informative!

Share our easy tips on preventing this disease with your kids, and help them stay safe while having a great time outdoors.

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/article/57545/educating-communities

What do baby diapers, and microscopy to study malaria parasites have in common? Some big news (pun intended) from our researchers in the Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory (M2PL)! We've achieved the first-ever ultra-structure expansion microscopy (U-ExM) of malaria parasites in South Africa, a game-changer for malaria research in Africa. The innovative approach, using U-ExM, inspired by the expansion of baby diapers, helps unlock the secrets of the tiny Plasmodium parasite. The parasite is smaller than a human red blood cell, and a lot more complex than one. Read more about the significance of this microscopy technique for malaria research and control 👇.
https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3208539-first-expansion-microscopy-of-malaria-parasites-in-africa-



Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria
University of Pretoria
Gates Foundation
Future Africa
https://www.up.ac.za/malaria-parasite-molecular-laboratory-m2pl

Our researchers and collaborators at UP ISMC are developing innovative tools for vector control, in response to the insecticide resistance challenge.

From mosquito repellent formulations and protective clothing to insecticide-impregnated wall linings, we're advancing safer and more sustainable methods.

We're even exploring variations in human attractiveness to mosquitoes as potential strategies for lure-and-kill approaches.

Together, we're transforming the vector control space and adding more weapons to our the arsenal in this ongoing battle against malaria.
https://www.up.ac.za/media/shared/236/ZP_Resources/issue-5-killing-by-design-page-24-and-25.zp243305.pdf

A collaborative study and high-impact paper involving researchers from the University of Pretoria, McGill University, and Université Laval, addressing concerns surrounding environmental toxins and epigenetic inheritance (the not-so-good, the bad, and the ugly):

The epigenome, comprising chemical compounds and proteins, regulates gene activity, influencing an organism's development and functioning. Over two decades ago, evidence emerged in rats demonstrating transgenerational epigenetic inheritance following paternal exposure to an endocrine-disrupting toxicant.

This raised concerns about potential human health implications. Uncertainties persist regarding transgenerational effects on the human s***m epigenome.

This study focused on the impact of the banned toxicant DDT on the s***m epigenome of Indigenous Greenlandic Inuit and South African Vhavenda men. These underrepresented populations, often overlooked and dubbed the ""invisible genome,"" face diverse exposure routes to environmental toxins, highlighting the need for broader research.

The findings revealed significant alterations in the s***m epigenome of men exposed to DDT, suggesting a link between environmental toxicant exposure and adverse health outcomes in future generations. This research emphasises the importance of exploring alternative disease control methods that do not rely on toxicants capable of modulating the epigenome.

Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for mitigating the risks posed by environmental toxins and safeguarding the health of current and future generations.

Read a press release about the research and publication here: https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3206998-are-environmental-toxicants-poisoning-inheritance-and-reducing-fertility-in-men-

Read the journal article here: https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP12013

An invited perspective, “Is DDT’s imprint here to stay?” accompanies the article. Read the perspective article here: https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP13235

Huge congratulations to Cabo Verde! The country has been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), becoming the third country in Africa to achieve this remarkable feat after Algeria and Mauritius. 🌍

Malaria is a significant global health challenge, but Africa disproportionately bears the brunt of this burden, accounting for 94% of all cases and 96% of all deaths in 2022. 🏝️

Cabo Verde has now joined the ranks of 43 malaria-free countries and one region. 🔍
What did it take for Cabo Verde to reach this pivotal milestone? Read more about Cabo Verde’s journey to reach malaria elimination and what it means for other countries with the same goal in mind.

https://theconversation.com/cape-verde-is-the-third-african-country-to-eliminate-malaria-heres-how-222064

University of Pretoria Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control | University of Pretoria The UP CSMC is a fully integrated, multidisciplinary, interfaculty initiative. The aim of the Centre is to coordinate and promote collaborative research.

One of our first publications for 2024! "Genetic complexity alters drug susceptibility of asexual and gametocyte stages of Plasmodium falciparum to antimalarial candidates".

Malaria elimination requires interventions able to target both the asexual blood stage (ABS) parasites and transmissible gametocyte stages of Plasmodium falciparum. Lead antimalarial candidates are evaluated against clinical isolates to address key concerns regarding drug effectiveness and to confirm that the current, circulating parasites from endemic regions lack resistance against these candidates. While this has largely been performed on ABS parasites, limited data are available on the transmission-blocking efficacy of compounds with multistage activity. The efficacy of lead antimalarial candidates against both ABS parasites and late-stage gametocytes side-by-side, against clinical P. falciparum isolates from southern Africa was evaluated. In addition, the researchers correlated drug efficacy to the genetic diversity of the clinical isolates. The data indicate varying sensitivities of the isolates to key antimalarial candidates, both for ABS parasites and gametocyte stages. While ABS parasites were efficiently killed, irrespective of genetic complexity, antimalarial candidates lost some gametocytocidal efficacy when the gametocytes originated from genetically complex infections. This suggests a fitness benefit to multiclone isolates to sustain transmission and reduce drug susceptibility. The study is the first to explore the efficacy of antimalarial candidates on both parasite stages, emphasizing the impact of genetic complexity and contributing to malaria elimination efforts.

This study and paper by one of our PhD students, Nicola Greyling, from our Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory (M2PL) group, was done in collaboration with Prof. Bryan Greenhouse (University of California, San Francisco) and Dr. Didier Leroy (Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV)). Congratulations Nicola!

Click here to read the paper: https://journals.asm.org/doi/full/10.1128/aac.01291-23?af=R

Click here to see our full publication list: www.malaria.up.ac.za



Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria
Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria

Throwback Thursday
What a positive start to the year! A group of our researchers recently met with the CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria – formerly known as Roll Back Malaria or RBM – which serves as the worldwide hub for coordinated efforts against malaria. The meeting was highly productive, setting a promising tone for collaboration in the year ahead. As we explored avenues for partnership and discussed potential contributions from our research institute, it became evident that our vision and objectives align closely with the goals of the Partnership. This initial exchange of ideas lays a solid foundation for future collaboration, marking the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship aimed at advancing innovative solutions to reduce malaria morbidity and mortality.
Watch this space.


In the image, from left to right:
Prof Lyn-Marie Birkholtz – Head: UP ISMC Parasite Control Cluster
Prof Lekan Ayo-Yusuf – Chairperson: School of Health Systems & Public Health
Dr Taneshka Kruger – Project Manager: UP ISMC
Dr Michael Adekunle Charles – CEO: RBM Partnership to End Malaria
Prof Tiaan de Jager – Director: UP ISMC
Dr Kaka Mudambo – Sub-Regional Coordinator for Eastern and Southern Africa: RBM Partnership to End Malaria
Dr Megan Riddin – Head: Vector Control Cluster: UP ISMC
Takalani Makhanthisa – Postgraduate (PhD) student

We're proud to share that UP ISMC researchers and affiliated members have published over 90 articles in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to two books in the last three years alone.

Our researchers are sharing their impactful research with other experts in their fields by presenting at national and international conferences, helping to shape the malaria dialogue, and working towards saving lives.

Join us in our transdisciplinary approach for a malaria-free Africa.

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/article/2907392/peer-reviewed-publications

At UP ISMC, we believe in innovative education methods to raise malaria awareness.

Collaborations between researchers from different faculties have resulted in music, visual arts, short drama stories, plays, and creative art initiatives.

These engaging approaches, such as the informative book "Sibo Fights Malaria," with its colourful and fun graphics, is an effective way to inform especially younger children about malaria.

Together, we're educating communities and empowering them to take action against malaria.

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/article/57545/educating-communities

In the fight against malaria, understanding the three main aspects is crucial: the mosquito vector, the parasite, and the human host.

The UP ISMC has three research clusters, dedicated to human health, parasite control, and vector control.

By studying these interconnected aspects, we aim to disrupt the cycle of infection and make strides towards malaria control.
Together, we can overcome this challenge.

https://youtu.be/VMj9dCczT30

Enjoy your summer bug-free with NoBuzz insect repellents.

The UP ISMC is a transdisciplinary platform established to tackle the complex challenge of malaria.
By consolidating leading research across various faculties, we bring talented individuals together to build a holistic view of the malaria system.

Our collaboration extends beyond the university to government entities and international partners. Together, we strive for safe and sustainable malaria control, contributing to a malaria-free Africa.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMj9dCczT30

What is the purpose of postgraduate students attending and presenting at research conferences and other scientific/academic events? These opportunities are crucial for sharing their research, which is essential for academic growth and societal impact. Participating in these activities benefits both the individual researcher and the academic community. As the year concludes, we celebrate the impactful research of our postgraduate students, some who had opportunities to present at national and international conferences.
Read more: https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3204015-postgraduate-perspectives-navigating-transdisciplinary-malaria-research-through-conference-participation-

Unlocking malaria's secrets in the 4IR: The power of machine Learning

Did you know? Machine learning (ML) algorithms range from simple tasks like spam filtering to complex processes like self-driving cars! The possibilities are endless, and the future is now! But ML and malaria? This article by one of our PhD students, Ashley van Heerden, was one of our Institute’s last publications for 2023.

van Heerden A, Turon G, Duran-Frigola M, Pillay N, Birkholtz L-M. Machine Learning Approaches Identify Chemical Features for Stage-Specific Antimalarial Compounds. ACS Omega. 2023;8(46):43813-43826. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/epdf/10.1021/acsomega.3c05664

In this study, researchers explored diverse chemical libraries to understand which compounds work against different stages of the malaria parasite. Using machine learning, they identified specific chemical features associated with fighting the parasite during its asexual blood stage (ABS) and when targeting gametocytes. The models built, especially with Support Vector Machines, proved highly accurate in predicting compound activity. This insight can streamline the optimization of antimalarial candidates, making the drug development process more efficient. The study highlights the practical use of machine learning in guiding future research in malaria treatment.

For a complete list of our publications, go to www.malaria.up.ac.za

Introducing the final installment of our malaria series! 🌍 Despite being preventable and treatable, hundreds of thousands of people still succumb to this devastating disease annually. Join us as we reiterate key take-aways to spread awareness and save lives. Together, let's ! 💙🦟

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3194961-malaria-101-in-summary-important-take-away-messages

Malaria elimination relies on rigorous research and understanding of the complexity of the disease.
In our seventh article, in the Malaria 101 series, we touch on the importance of research and:

- Show why dispelling myths is crucial for informed control strategies;
- Briefly summarise the history of malaria control through research;
- Highlight the need for investment, innovation, and implementation for effective malaria control.
-Research guides interventions, ensuring a holistic approach to combat this global health challenge.

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3194943-malaria-101-invest-innovate-implement-research-towards-malaria-elimination

Adventure awaits, but your health is non-negotiable, especially in malaria-endemic regions. Our latest article, five of eight, on malaria and travel safety offers invaluable insights to make your journey secure and enjoyable.

🔒 Preparing for Travel: Research, pack right, and shield yourself from mosquito bites with proper clothing.

💊 Prophylactic Medications: Your protective shield against malaria. Get professional advice and stick to your medication schedule diligently.

🏡 Choosing Accommodation: Stay in places with robust mosquito control measures. Cleanliness and pest control are key.

Prioritise safety on your travels to high-risk malaria areas. Your well-being is your greatest treasure. 🌐💼
https://www.up.ac.za/news/post_3194851-malaria-101-c-is-for-chemoprophylaxis-travel-safety-in-malaria-endemic-areas



University of Pretoria
Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria
University of Pretoria School of Health Systems and Public Health
Quote This Woman+
Future Africa
Gates Foundation

Malaria is a formidable foe, but early recognition of its symptoms can be a game-changer.
Our latest article, three of eight, dives into the critical aspects of identifying common malaria symptoms and understanding the difference between mild and severe cases.

🔍 Common Malaria Symptoms: Learn to spot the signs like fever, chills, sweating, fatigue, and muscle aches. Early recognition is key!

🚑 Mild vs. Severe Malaria: Discover the crucial differences between uncomplicated and severe cases. Timely action can save lives!

Stay informed, share this knowledge, and help us in the battle against malaria. Together, we can make a difference! 🌍💪

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3194813-malaria-101-a-is-for-awareness-and-symptoms-recognising-the-tell-tale-signs



University of Pretoria
Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria
University of Pretoria School of Health Systems and Public Health
Future Africa
Quote This Woman+

Malaria awareness creation should be an ongoing process. A tool to educate and empower people to take their health into their own hands and help us reach malaria elimination.

This should not only occur on annual “special” days like World Malaria Day and SADC Malaria Day.

These days are great to mobilise affected communities, highlighting successes, challenges, the need for ongoing awareness and involvement in control initiatives, and lobbying for resources.

With the holiday season approaching, many people will be traveling to high-risk malaria areas.

Over the next four weeks, a series of eight articles will simplify this complex disease, with the aim of keeping people informed and to stay safe from malaria.

To know how to stay safe from getting malaria, one needs to know and understand the basics of the disease first.

https://www.up.ac.za/up-institute-for-sustainable-malaria-control/news/post_3194658-malaria-101-the-basics-starting-at-the-beginning



University of Pretoria
Future Africa
Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria
University of Pretoria School of Health Systems and Public Health
Quote This Woman+

Every year on November 6th, we come together to commemorate Southern African Development Community (SADC) Malaria Day.
It's not just another date on the calendar; it's a day of action and awareness!

Join us in the fight against this life-threatening disease. Together, we can make a real difference. 🤝 Here's how:

1️⃣ Spread Knowledge: Share facts about malaria with your friends and family. Education is the key to prevention!

2️⃣ Use Your Voice: Raise awareness by using the hashtag .
Let's make some noise about the importance of malaria control!

3️⃣ Protect Your Loved Ones: Learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of malaria and encourage early treatment. Your vigilance can save lives.

4️⃣ Prevent the Bite: Promote personal protective measures where possible like using repellent, wearing long sleeve clothes, or sleeping under mosquito nets.. Stay safe!

5️⃣ Support Malaria Initiatives: Explore ways to get involved in local malaria control programmes. Your community needs you!

Malaria is preventable and curable, but it requires our collective efforts. Let's stand together on and work towards a malaria-free future for all. 💪🦠🚫

https://lnkd.in/dhpH3huE

Explore the Best Parasitology Research of 2022! 🦠

Our expert Prof Lyn-Marie Birkholtz and collaborators have their paper on 'Malaria Elimination Strategies' featured in this special collection. Learn how we can combat malaria by targeting the blood- and transmissible stages of the malaria parasite, and find promising solutions in the form of new drugs.

Read the article by clicking on this link: https://www.cell.com/trends/parasitology/fulltext/S1471-4922(22)00012-5

For more publications on our malaria parasite-focused research, go to: www.malaria.up.ac.za 📖




Trends in Parasitology
University of Pretoria
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria
Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Pretoria