Targeting the host lipid environment to disrupt malaria transmission

Malaria has a global economic impact of over $17 billion per year. Australia is surrounded by countries where malaria is very common and poses major health, societal and economic challenges. In order to find new and more efficient cures for malaria, we need to know how malaria parasites take up the lipids from their human host that allow them to grow and survive. This project will identify lipids essential for the transition of the malaria parasite from the human to the mosquito host as well as how they function. We will uncover weaknesses in the parasite and provide specific mechanisms and molecules, which can be targeted by industry and NGOs to develop new malaria medications and intervention strategies. This new knowledge will also be relevant for preventing other mosquito-borne diseases and will lead to cheaper and more efficient ways to grow malaria parasites in laboratories. Combat