An international research team has developed a novel malaria vaccine candidate that demonstrated significantly stronger immune responses in preclinical models than existing approaches, according to findings published in Nature Communications.

The study, involving researchers from Canada, the United States, and the Netherlands, was conducted using the Canadian Light Source synchrotron facility at the University of Saskatchewan. The team analysed blood samples from individuals with naturally acquired immunity to malaria to identify which parasite proteins play the most significant role in transmission. Two of the most potent proteins were then fused into a single chimeric vaccine candidate.

Preclinical results showed the combined antigen elicited considerably greater immune responses than either protein tested individually. Researchers used the synchrotron to map the structure of human antibodies bound to the prototype vaccine, confirming at a molecular level that antibodies attached to the intended target proteins, a critical validation step that reduces uncertainty before proceeding to costly clinical trials.

Malaria remains a major global health burden: in 2024, the World Health Organization recorded nearly 282 million infections and 610,000 deaths worldwide, with children under five among the most vulnerable. Currently available vaccines offer only partial protection, underscoring the need for more effective alternatives.

The vaccine candidate will undergo further testing before any potential progression to clinical trials, which the researchers estimate could occur within a few years if results continue to be favourable. The team’s stated long-term objective is to contribute to global malaria elimination, with particular focus on populations in regions currently underserved by existing health interventions.

Published in: Nature Communications