MAM01 (Monoclonal Antibody Against Malaria)
30.10.2025
- MAM01 (Monoclonal Antibody Against Malaria)
Context
A new monoclonal antibody, MAM01, has demonstrated high protection against malaria in an early clinical trial led by U.S. researchers, offering a potential breakthrough for disease prevention in endemic regions.
What is MAM01?
- Nature:
MAM01 is a laboratory-engineered monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed to neutralise the Plasmodium falciparum parasite before it enters the bloodstream, providing passive immunisation instead of provoking an active immune response. - Development:
Created by the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD).
Aim and Approach
- Objective:
To offer immediate and months-long protection, particularly for vulnerable groups (children, pregnant women) in malaria-prone regions, without the need for multiple vaccine doses or boosters. - Target:
MAM01 blocks the parasite by binding to a conserved region of the circumsporozoite protein (CSP), an essential part in infecting liver cells.
Key Features and Clinical Results
- Single Dose & Safety:
Phase 1, double-blind, placebo-controlled study among 38 malaria-naïve adults (18–50 years). A single dose of MAM01 resulted in 100% protection at the highest dose, with no severe adverse events detected. - Dose-dependent Effect:
Higher antibody concentrations correlated with greater protection, with serum levels above 88 µg/mL yielding full immunity in tested adults. - Trial Design:
Participants were exposed to malaria via infected mosquito bites. In the highest-dose group, none developed parasitaemia, while all placebo participants did. - Well-tolerated:
No serious adverse effects after one or two doses, confirming proof-of-concept for human safety.
Significance and Way Forward
- Transformative Potential:
MAM01 offers a promising tool to prevent malaria, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where over 600,000 deaths occur annually. - Role in Malaria Elimination:
It aligns with WHO’s Global Technical Strategy (GTS) 2025–2030 for malaria eradication. - Future Scenarios:
Mass immunisation, seasonal prophylaxis, and integration into targeted campaigns may be possible if production costs can be reduced.
Conclusion
MAM01 marks a significant innovation in malaria prevention through long-acting, single-dose passive immunisation. Further trials and scalable manufacturing will be essential to harness its full potential in high-burden areas.