Drug resistance and population genetics of malaria parasites

We have developed theoretical models describing the spread of drug resistance in malaria, concentrating on what matters to how fast resistance develops, and which do not.  Field studies from collaborators Hamza Baabiker have shown that the frequency of resistance declines during the non-transmission season, thus suggesting a biological cost of resistance, and that differential drug use can lead to population structure at the spatial level. We are also participating in the highly active research area of describing the general population structure of malaria parasite populations.

Collaborators: Dr. H. Babiker, Dr. D. Arnot, Prof. D. Walliker, Dr. P. Hunt, Dr. J. McBride, Prof. R. Carter.