A Support Community for Tracking Malaria Parasites Evading Detection

Malaria parasites evading rapid diagnostic tests

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria revolutionised malaria control efforts, enabling quicker treatment and improving adherence. The vast majority of these malaria RDTs used globally target the histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP2), alone or in combination with other antigens, to detect Plasmodium falciparum parasites. However, mutations in the parasite have resulted in the deletion of the gene encoding this protein (pfhrp2) or a closely related one (pfhrp3), enabling those parasites to avoid detection by RDTs via false negative results.

These gene deletions were first detected in Peru but are now widespread in the Horn of Africa and in several other malaria-endemic regions. Be it increasing surveillance of pfhrp2/3 gene deletions, or opting for alternate testing tools, we need to take urgent and coordinated action to avoid the deadly consequences of this threat.

A Community of Practice on pfhrp2/3 gene deletions

In March 2023, MESA, hosted by ISGlobal, launched a ‘Community of Practice on pfhrp2/3 gene deletions’, dedicated to mobilising stakeholders and providing peer and technical support on the detection and/or monitoring of pfhrp2/3 gene deletions.

The CoP is being coordinated by MESA in collaboration with a group of experts that include researchers, national malaria program members, and other stakeholders from five continents. It aims to promote information-sharing among its members by compiling best practices, providing updates on the latest developments, and coordinating information exchanges with experts.

Speaking about the importance of this community, Elisa Serra from MESA said, “Following the WHO’s recommendation to undertake surveillance of pfhrp2/3 gene deletions, a number of countries have shown willingness to set up surveys, but in many cases, they have also expressed their lack of experience and resources to do so. This platform will provide the necessary technical guidance and facilitate the sharing of lessons learned.”

Deus Ishengoma, the Chair of the CoP explained, “Laboratory analysis of samples collected in the country-wide pfhrp2/3 surveys is critical but few laboratories have the capacity to do such work. Through this forum, country teams can interact with and get support from well-established laboratories. This will ensure the results are generated timely to inform policy and decision-making by ministries of health.”

Being a member of the community

Whether you are a researcher, a member of a national malaria programme, or a manufacturer of malaria diagnostics, this CoP is open to all. However, the group will best serve the needs of those involved (or planning to be involved) in pfhrp2/3 gene deletion surveillance. 

Join the community