US team reveal malaria vaccine breakthrough

Researchers claim that a new protein could prevent infection by the parasite responsible for the spread of malaria.

A team from Case Western Reserve University have suggested that a Duffy binding protein-based vaccine could interrupt the interaction of Plasmodium vivax (P.vivax) with red blood cells.

In their findings, published in the journal Public Library of Science Medicine, the researchers believe they have provided a clear path towards the development of a vaccine to protect against the P.vivax malaria strain.

"P.vivax is widely distributed throughout Asia, the South Pacific, parts of Africa and South America," said James W Kazura, director of the university's Centre for Global Health and Diseases.

"However, the importance of developing a vaccine against vivax malaria to the American public is underscored by the fact that this form of malaria is transmitted in Afghanistan, Iraq and adjoining regions where our troops are stationed."

P.vivax is the most widespread strain of malaria, with the report indicating that there are currently 70 million cases worldwide.

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