While Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax receive most of the attention in malaria research, other human-infecting species, such as Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale, remain under-detected and poorly understood. These neglected species contribute to ongoing malaria transmission, particularly in Africa and parts of Asia, and are often misdiagnosed due to their low parasite levels and similarity to more common species. 

Current molecular diagnostics, including PCR-based methods, rely heavily on genetic targets such as the 18S rRNA and mitochondrial DNA. However, these targets have limited copies in the genomes of P. malariae and P. ovale, reducing the sensitivity of detection, especially in low-parasitemia or mixed-species infections. The inability to reliably differentiate between P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri further complicates surveillance and treatment decisions. 

This project focuses on evaluating existing molecular targets and identifying novel genomic regions to improve the detection of non-falciparum malaria species. Using a combination of laboratory assays, bioinformatic analyses, and comparative genomics, the team aims to develop tools that are more sensitive, specific, and capable of distinguishing between closely related species. 

By improving diagnostic accuracy, this work will help uncover the true burden of neglected malaria species, inform targeted interventions, and contribute to global malaria control and elimination efforts.