CD8+ T cell mediated pathogenesis in malaria

Despite the availability of anti-malarial treatment, severe malaria is still a significant cause of global mortality due to complications such as cerebral malaria and malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (MA-ARDS). CD8+ T cells are known to contribute to the development of both cerebral malaria and MA-ARDS in experimental malaria models. However, the exact mechanisms of how and why they contribute, aren't fully understood yet. The goal of this PhD project is to further determine the mechanisms underlying CD8+ T cell activation and CD8+ T cell mediated pathogenesis in malaria.