This grant will study the acquisition of drug resistance by malarial parasites. Resistance to antimalarial drugs is correlated with genetic changes in malarial enzymes called DHPS and DHFR (dihydropteroate synthase and dihydrofolate reductase). Malarial parasites resistant to these drugs carry alleles of DHPS and DHFR that contain point mutations reducing binding of drug to enzyme. Therefore, the goal of the project is to compare the rates of change in parasite alleles known to be associated with drug resistance, to identify selective forces that influence the rate of selection of drug resistance in Kenya. Subsequently, this information will influence public health decisions in treatment protocols for malaria in East Africa.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Fogarty International Center (FIC)
Type
Small Research Grants (R03)
Project #
5R03TW001186-02
Application #
6394968
Study Section
International and Cooperative Projects 1 Study Section (ICP)
Program Officer
Michels, Kathleen M
Project Start
2000-09-01
Project End
2003-06-30
Budget Start
2001-07-01
Budget End
2002-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2001
Total Cost
$40,320
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Washington
Department
Genetics
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
135646524
City
Seattle
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
98195