genetically attenuated malaria vaccine

The genetically attenuated malaria vaccine (GAP vaccine) is a live, whole-parasite biologic candidate developed by the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute. This blood-stage vaccine utilizes a *Plasmodium falciparum* parasite that has been genetically modified to delete the gene encoding the knob-associated histidine-rich protein (KAHRP). KAHRP is essential for the assembly of knob structures on the surface of infected erythrocytes, which are required for the correct display of *P. falciparum* erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1), a key virulence determinant. By deleting the KAHRP gene, the parasite is rendered attenuated (less virulent) as it cannot cytoadhere to the microvasculature, while remaining capable of eliciting a protective immune response. The vaccine has been evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical study in healthy adult volunteers to assess safety, infectivity, and immunogenicity.

Other names

KAHRP-deleted Plasmodium falciparum vaccineKAHRP-deleted GAP vaccine