Tackling malaria with the help of a medicinal herb
Posted on 30 June 2008
Malaria kills more than a million people — mainly young children — every year. The malarial parasite has gradually become immune to most of the medicines we use to combat it. The World Health Organisation (WHO) now recommends artemisinin combination therapies (ACTS) as the most effective malaria treatment. However, artemisinin is extracted from the aromatic herb Artemisia and the plant only produces tiny amounts, making ACTs too expensive for many in need.
This project is an excellent example of how modern plant science, founded in genomics, can benefit society
Professor Dianna Bowles
The Centre for Novel Agricultural Products at the University of York is using the latest molecular and genetic technologies to fast-track the plant breeding of Artemisia and increase yields. Professor Dianna Bowles, one of the project leaders, explains: "Our aim is to rapidly develop high-yielding, non-GM varieties of Artemisia that will help reduce costs and secure supplies of this vital anti-malarial medicine. This project is an excellent example of how modern plant science, founded in genomics, can benefit society."
The pharma farmers: can plant genetics bring us more affordable malaria medicines? is part of the Royal Society’s Summer Exhibition, on in central London from 30 June to 3 July.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The project is led by Professor Ian Graham and Professor Dianna Bowles and is based at the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP), part of the Department of Biology at the University of York. More information on the project can be found at www.cnap.org.uk
- The University of York’s Department of Biology is one of the leading centres for biological teaching and research in the UK. The Department both teaches degree courses and undertakes research across the whole spectrum of modern Biology, from molecular genetics and biochemistry to ecology.
- The project is funded by a grant from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It builds on work financed by the Medicines for Malaria Venture and GlaxoSmithKline, and supported by core-funding to CNAP from the Garfield Weston Foundation. Two solutions which complement plant-based production of artemisinin are also under development.
- The Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition is held annually at the Royal Society, the UK’s national academy of science. The event is free and open to the public. Further information can be found at www.summerscience.org.uk
- Press preview of this exhibit and others on show: 15.00 to 17.00 Monday 30 June — please register your interest with the Royal Society press office.
General info: The Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition showcases cutting edge research in science and engineering from across the UK. It is held annually at the Royal Society, the UK’s national academy of science.
This year, 23 interactive exhibits will be on show presenting the best of UK science, engineering and technology. During the four days of the event, more than 4,000 people are expected to take up the opportunity to explore the exhibition.
The Royal Society is at 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AG. Nearest tubes are Piccadilly Circus or Charing Cross.