Strengthening malaria research and combatting drug resistance at Noguchi

Radio Univers
Radio Univers
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During the 45th Anniversary celebration of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research on October 24, 2024, Prof. Kwadwo Ansah Koram, former Director of the institute and Professor of Epidemiology, shared how investments in training, infrastructure, and international collaboration are transforming malaria research and control efforts in Ghana.

Prof. Koram highlighted significant strides in training local scientists in fields like entomology, molecular biology, and epidemiology, providing them with hands-on experience to tackle the complex challenges of malaria control and elimination. “Through workshops and field experiences, we aim to build a strong foundation for future research,” he noted.

He emphasized that the entomology unit plays a crucial role by monitoring mosquito vectors both in the field and at entry points, which is key to controlling and potentially eliminating malaria.

International collaborations have also been pivotal, according to Prof. Koram. He recounted the establishment of the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria (MIM), aimed at empowering scientists in endemic regions to lead and devise solutions for malaria challenges on the continent.

A central part of Noguchi’s capacity-building has been its infrastructure expansion, including laboratory upgrades, sentinel sites across 30 district hospitals, and advanced molecular tools, all of which support Noguchi’s ability to conduct high-level research.

Data from these sites help track malaria prevalence and are frequently used to guide national policies on drug resistance and vector control.

Prof. Koram also detailed Noguchi’s crucial role in shaping malaria treatment strategies in Ghana, tracing back to the early days when chloroquine was the first-line treatment. By the early 2000s, widespread resistance to chloroquine had led to high child mortality, prompting Ghana to adopt Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs). While ACTs have been effective, resistance markers are now emerging. “We have seen a reduction in ACT sensitivity, though not as severe as chloroquine resistance in the past,” he said, referencing mutations associated with partial resistance in Africa. To monitor this, Noguchi has established therapeutic efficacy studies at sentinel sites across Ghana, ensuring a proactive response to resistance patterns.

 

Looking ahead, Prof. Koram emphasized the importance of ongoing research to counteract resistance. New insecticides and alternative drugs are being tested to strengthen malaria control, while advanced genetic tools, like genome sequencing, are being used to track drug resistance at the molecular level. Noguchi researchers are also studying the malaria parasite genome to understand how mutations influence drug efficacy and vaccine responses, guiding future treatment strategies.

“Research and training at Noguchi have a direct impact on Ghana’s malaria control programs. We have provided nearly 20 years of service to the Malaria Control Program, supporting it with high-end lab data for informed decision-making,” Prof. Koram concluded.

Story by: Joycelyn Glory | univers.ug.edu.gh

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