Research on the pathology of severe malaria and endothelial dysfunction
Welcome!
It is devastating to know that over 600,000 individuals, primarily children in Sub-Saharan Africa, die each year due to severe malaria. Shockingly, malaria takes the life of a child every minute and is one of the top five causes of death for children under the age of five. At Julio Gallego-Delgado's laboratory, we are committed to investigating the pathology of severe malaria. Specifically, we utilize in vitro and in vivo models of malaria to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms that cause acute kidney injury and cerebral malaria, the two deadliest complications of severe malaria. The ultimate goal of their research is to create new and improved treatments to combat this deadly illness.
Malaria is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes and caused by a parasite called Plasmodium. The most perilous type of this disease is caused by P. falciparum, and it is responsible for most malaria-related fatalities worldwide. Nearly half of the world's population is at risk of contracting malaria. In 2021, the World Health Organization reported 247 million cases of malaria and 619,000 deaths, with 80% of those deaths being children under five years old. Although severe malaria only accounts for a small percentage of cases, it can quickly progress and often leads to death within 24-48 hours of admission to a hospital. Severe malaria can manifest in various ways, such as cerebral malaria, acidosis, and renal dysfunction, all of which can result in fatal outcomes. Although there are drugs that effectively kill the parasite, there is currently no specific treatment for severe complications. It is imperative to develop new treatments for these life-threatening complications as soon as possible.
Malaria In 2023
Malaria life cycle
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
julio.gallegodelgado@lehman.cuny.edu
Phone
+1 (347) 577 4109