Professor Julian Rayner

Project/study information 

Malaria remains a devastating, global health concern. In 2017 there were an estimated 219 million cases worldwide with 435,000 deaths – 61 % of which were in children under five (source: World Health Organisation). Working with other scientists in countries where malaria is present, we focus on understanding exactly how the malaria-causing Plasmodium parasites are able to infect human red blood cells by identifying the particular proteins used by the parasites to recognise and target them. Such proteins could form the basis of potential new vaccinees. In another strand, our research into the genetic makeup of the parasites may reveal potential vulnerabilities for targeting by drugs, and therefore better treatments.