A protein-based self-assembled nanoparticle provides an improved malarial vaccine

Matthew R Groves; Siyao Chen

doi:10.1016/j.pt.2026.02.002

A protein-based self-assembled nanoparticle provides an improved malarial vaccine

Trends Parasitol. 2026 Mar;42(3):160-161. doi: 10.1016/j.pt.2026.02.002. Epub 2026 Feb 28.

Authors

Matthew R Groves¹, Siyao Chen²

Affiliations

¹ Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; Genomics for Health in Africa (GHA), Africa-Europe Cluster of Research Excellence (CoRE). Electronic address: m.r.groves@rug.nl.
² Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.

PMID: 41763917
DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2026.02.002

Abstract

Shi et al. recently published a report leveraging the self-assembly of the Pdx1 and Pdx2 proteins as a vaccine platform. This elegant approach achieved complete sterile protection in mouse models, providing a promising avenue to accomplish the WHO's goal of eliminating malaria in at least 35 countries by 2030.

Keywords: celTOS; circumsporozoite protein; malaria; nanoparticle; vaccine.

MeSH terms

Animals
Humans
Malaria Vaccines* / immunology
Malaria* / prevention & control
Mice
Nanoparticles* / chemistry
Protozoan Proteins / immunology

Substances

Malaria Vaccines
Protozoan Proteins