Defining the role of lymphotoxin alpha in experimental cerebral malaria

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Malaria kills millions of children every year. A major cause of death is cerebral malaria (CM) resulting from Plasmodium falciparum infection. At present, there is no effective vaccine available and drug-resistant parasites are widespread. CM is a serious neurological condition characterised by the sequestration of infected red blood cells (iRBC) in cerebral blood vessels. This event is thought to initiate a cascade of inflammatory reactions that ultimately lead to cerebral damage and often death. The factors that cause the sequestration of iRBC in the brain are poorly understood. In this project, we will use an experimental model to define the changes that occur in the cerebral vessels during malaria. The identity of the cells and molecules that mediate the binding of iRBC to the blood vessels of the brain will be identified. It is anticipated that results from this work will increase our understanding of the development of pathology in the brain, as well as identify potential targets for modulation to prevent disease.