New Monoclonal Antibody Shows Strong Protection Against Malaria

October 23, 2025 MTIMES 2 min read global health, malaria prevention, malaria research, malaria vaccine alternative, MAM01 antibody, monoclonal antibodies, public health innovation, The Lancet Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland

A novel monoclonal antibody developed by US researchers has demonstrated strong protection against malaria in an early clinical trial, offering a new preventive approach against the deadly disease.

The antibody, named MAM01, was tested by scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD). The trial showed that MAM01 provided dose-dependent full protection against malaria parasites with minimal side effects.

“This new monoclonal antibody could transform how we prevent malaria in young children and pregnant women,” said Kirsten E. Lyke, Professor of Medicine and lead author. “Unlike vaccines requiring multiple doses or boosters, a single injection of a long-acting antibody could provide immediate, months-long protection.”

Malaria remains one of the leading causes of child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, claiming over 600,000 lives annually. Despite advances in vaccines and treatment, prevention remains a major global health challenge.

The study, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, revealed that MAM01 targets a highly conserved region of the parasite’s surface protein, effectively blocking infection before the parasite reaches the bloodstream.

Co-author Matthew B. Laurens, Professor of Pediatrics, noted that “these results suggest this monoclonal antibody can provide reliable protection against malaria, which continues to disproportionately affect children in low- and middle-income countries.”

With further trials planned, MAM01 could represent a major step toward equitable, long-term malaria prevention.

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