Daiichi Sankyo has entered into a collaborative research agreement with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) to conduct hit-to-lead research aimed at identifying inhibitors of PfPFN (Plasmodium falciparum Profilin), a novel therapeutic target molecule in malaria parasites, for the development of new antimalarial treatments.
This project has been selected for the "Hit-to-Lead Program" of the Global Health Innovative Technology Fund (GHIT Fund) and has received the first installment of grant funding to support research and development activities.
Malaria is an infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. It is characterized by recurring high fever and can be fatal if not treated appropriately. In 2024, an estimated 282 million malaria cases were reported across 80 countries worldwide, resulting in approximately 610,000 deaths. The emergence of parasites resistant to existing treatments has been identified as a significant threat to global malaria control efforts. The development of new drugs based on novel mechanisms of action is therefore urgently needed to combat the spread of drug-resistant malaria.
Building on hit compounds identified through a previous collaborative screening project with MMV, this project will conduct hit-to-lead optimization research to develop novel antimalarial compounds that inhibit PfPFN (Profilin), a key target molecule in malaria parasites. PfPFN is an essential protein involved in parasite motility and host cell invasion. This collaboration aims to discover next-generation antimalarial drugs based on a novel mechanism of action.
Through this collaboration and other initiatives to develop medicines and improve access to healthcare in developing countries, Daiichi Sankyo continues to contribute to SDG Goal 3: "Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages," as adopted by United Nations member states. We remain committed to these activities in pursuit of our corporate philosophy of contributing to the enrichment of quality of life around the world.
About GHIT Fund
The Global Health Innovative Technology Fund (GHIT Fund) is an international public-private partnership that includes the Government of Japan (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare), private sector companies including pharmaceutical firms, the Gates Foundation, Wellcome, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Fund invests in and manages a portfolio focused on the development of new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics to combat infectious diseases that threaten the health of the world's poorest populations, including malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). GHIT Fund promotes the participation of Japanese pharmaceutical companies, universities, and research institutions in product development and fosters collaboration with international organizations.
https://www.ghitfund.org/