Research
We are dedicated to advancing the field of infectious disease control through groundbreaking research and innovative solutions. Our primary focus areas include developing novel vaccine candidates for malaria, improving diagnostic and surveillance tools, and enhancing maternal and neonatal health in malaria-endemic regions. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a deep understanding of disease mechanisms, we aim to address some of the most pressing health challenges faced by populations in Africa, South America, Oceania, and Asia. Our work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also aims to bring tangible benefits to global health through improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Some of our key lines of research are highlighted below.
Sketch of Dr Bernard Kanoi (second right) with (left to right) Prof Eizo Takashima, Prof Yaeta Endo, and Prof Takafumi Tsuboi who have been very instrumental in the use of wheat germ cell free system in malaria research.
1. Immuno-epidemiological Studies
Identifying Novel Vaccine Antigens for Malaria
Our research focuses on the identification of novel vaccine antigens to develop more effective malaria vaccines. By leveraging wheat germ cell-free protein synthesis, we produce candidate recombinant malaria vaccine antigens from malaria parasite RNA. Our efforts have significantly advanced the discovery of new malaria blood-stage vaccine candidates and the secretome profiles of P. falciparum through immuno-screening approaches.
2. Increasing the Portfolio of Functionally Characterized Candidate Plasmodium falciparum Malaria Vaccines
Our research aims to significantly expand the portfolio of functionally characterized candidate malaria vaccines, with a specific focus on Plasmodium falciparum. This endeavor involves identifying and evaluating new vaccine candidates, enhancing our understanding of their mechanisms of action
3. Improving Maternal and Neonatal Health
Understanding Infections in Pregnancy to Enhance Health Outcomes
Our research is driven by a passion for improving maternal and neonatal health, particularly in malaria-endemic regions. By gaining a deeper understanding of infections during pregnancy, we aim to develop strategies that protect both mothers and their newborns.
Our work contributes to enhancing the health and well-being of mothers and infants in regions heavily affected by malaria, ultimately aiming to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with pregnancy-related infections.
One of our key projects , " Systematic prioritization and initial characterization of Plasmodium falciparum vaccine antigens against pregnancy associated malaria" is part of the EDCTP2 programme supported by the European Union.
4. Plasmodium vivax Malaria Vaccine Discovery
Plasmodium vivax is the most widespread human malaria-causing pathogen, putting 2.5 billion people at risk across Africa, South America, Oceania, and Asia. Despite this, efforts to control P. vivax malaria lag significantly behind those targeting P. falciparum, particularly in the development of effective vaccines. Currently approved P. falciparum vaccines do not protect against P. vivax. In response, the World Health Organization's Malaria Vaccine Technology Roadmap to 2030 aims for a P. vivax vaccine with 75% efficacy.
Key Contributions:
Genome-Wide Approach: Participated in research efforts to identify novel candidate P. vivax malaria vaccines using a genome-wide approach.
Immune-Screening: Employed immune-screening techniques to discover and evaluate potential vaccine candidates.
Our research addresses critical gaps in the knowledge and development of a P. vivax vaccine, contributing to global efforts to control and eventually eradicate P. vivax malaria.
5. Development of Diagnostic and Surveillance Tools
Enhancing Diagnostics and Surveillance for Infectious Diseases; Our research is dedicated to improving diagnostic and surveillance tools essential for providing accurate treatment and monitoring the effectiveness of disease control programs. This work is crucial for the management of infectious diseases.
Key Contributions:
Molecular Diagnosis Improvement: Participated in research that enhanced the molecular diagnosis of several diseases, including malaria, schistosomiasis, SARS-CoV-2, and sexually transmitted diseases in Kenya.
Technical Capacity Building: Increased the technical capabilities of Kenyan investigators, enabling them to design high-performance molecular diagnostics.
Our efforts have led to significant advancements in the diagnostic and surveillance capabilities for various infectious diseases, contributing to better disease management and control strategies in Kenya.