Research Projects

Malaria remains a significant issue in developing countries, with Plasmodium falciparum being the primary cause of malaria-related deaths. Artemisinin resistance has been reported in southeast Asia and India, with mutations in the Kelch13 gene identified as a molecular marker. K13 mutant parasites have reduced hemoglobin endocytosis, slow growth, damaged cellular components, and heightened stress response. The enhanced lipid metabolism and intracellular trafficking of PI3P-rich vesicles contribute to artemisinin resistance. Recent studies have reported K13-independent artemisinin resistance in central India and Africa. A study using genomic sNP datasets from 2,517 isolates from 15 countries identified mutations in a novel putative gene named alpha-ß hydrolase. The study aims to understand the role of alpha or beta hydrolase in regulating artemisinin sensitivity in P. falciparum, determining its catalytic activity and gene knockout studies.