Transmission-blocking drugs for malaria elimination

Area of Science:

• Malariology
• Drug Discovery
• Parasitology

Background:

• Preventing human-to-mosquito malaria parasite transmission is crucial for malaria elimination.
• Validated assays have facilitated the discovery of transmission-blocking compounds.
• Developing dual-active compounds targeting asexual and sexual parasite stages is a priority.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated roadmap for the discovery and development of novel antimalarials with transmission-blocking activity.
• To guide drug discovery efforts aimed at malaria elimination.
• To explore strategies combining compounds targeting different parasite life stages.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of current antimalarial drug discovery approaches.
• Analysis of strategies for targeting both asexual and sexual erythrocytic stages.
• Consideration of compounds targeting gametocyte-specific biology.

Main Results:

• The development of routine assays has enabled the identification of transmission-blocking compounds.
• Combinations of dual-active compounds offer a promising strategy.
• Targeting gametocyte-specific pathways can complement asexual-stage treatments.

Conclusions:

• A strategic roadmap is essential for advancing antimalarial drug discovery for elimination.
• Transmission-blocking antimalarials are vital for reducing reinfection and drug resistance.
• Combined approaches targeting diverse parasite processes enhance elimination potential.