Johanna P. Daily, MD

Our primary research interest is in the biology, pathogenesis and immunology of Plasmodium falciparum. Patients infected with this parasite can be completely asymptomatic or develop severe disease resulting in death. The goal of our research has been to define the molecular mechanisms that underlie this variation in disease outcomes in P. falciparum. Toward this goal, we have developed a new pathogenesis model through the analysis of in vivo parasite biology and associated host factors using a whole genome and metabolomic approach. We have identified novel parasite biology when it resides in the human host and idnetified a putative mediator of coma in cerebral malaria.  We also are studying adjunctive therapy to improve outcomes in severe malaria using the animal model.   We carry out field based translational studies in cohorts infected with malaria in Africa and test hypothesis in the animal model of malaria.  The long term goal is to identify parasite and host processes involved in disease to serve as targets for vaccine or chemotherapeutic development.

Our group also conducts studies to characterize the effect of COVID-19 on brain function in collaboration with Dr. Michael Liptons group and identifying patients with other emerging viral infections in collaboration with Drs Chandran and Lai's group.