Advancing Research Models and Technologies to Overcome Biological Barriers to Plasmodium vivax Control

Malaria prevalence has declined in the past 10 years, especially outside of sub-Saharan Africa. However, the proportion of cases due to Plasmodium vivax is increasing, accounting for up to 90-100% of the malaria burden in endemic regions. Nonetheless, investments in malaria research and control still prioritize Plasmodium falciparum while largely neglecting P. vivax. Specific biological features of P. vivax, particularly invasion of reticulocytes, occurrence of dormant liver forms of the parasite, and the potential for transmission of sexual-stage parasites prior to onset of clinical illness, promote its persistence and hinder development of research tools and interventions. This review discusses recent advances in P. vivax research, current knowledge of its unique biology, and proposes priorities for P. vivax research and control efforts.