Investigation of the protective role of anti-PfGARP antibodies against severe malaria

The aim of the project is to decipher the mechanisms leading to severe malaria
protection conferred by anti-PfGARP antibodies in different endemic settings, using a
combination of serological and machine learning analyses. The objectives of the
project are: 1. Set up and optimise a serological screening platform for PfGARP using
truncated protein constructs and screened using our MagPix (Luminex) quantitative
suspension bead array platform 2. Leverage the screening platform to measure levels
of anti-PfGARP in the plasma of individuals with asymptomatic, uncomplicated and
severe malaria infection from different cohorts (high and low-endemic areas, India and
Uganda) 3. Assess the different protective effects of anti-PfGARP antibodies in these
cohorts by performing machine learning analyses including clinical (parasitaemia,
parasite biomass, platelet levels, brain swelling assessed by MRI, complications,
outcome, etc.) and biological parameters (selection of less virulent parasites, etc.) 4.
Develop an anti-PfGARP antibody detection test and evaluate its potential as a
prognostic tool in a clinical setting in India. Dr. Tetteh will oversee research related to
serology platform development and optimization, as well as the sample screening. Dr.
Wassmer will supervise the machine learning analysis using the extensive clinical and
biological database of the cohorts, as well as the development and assessment of anti-
PfGARP antibody detection test on-site in India. The proposed research project is highly
interdisciplinary and both supervisors will be actively engaged in all aspects of the
project.