Nanotechnology in Malaria Diagnosis and Treatment: Emerging Trends and Applications

Habimana Eric James

Faculty of Biological Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, with substantial morbidity and mortality particularly affecting vulnerable populations in tropical and subtropical regions. Conventional diagnostic methods often lack the sensitivity and specificity required for early detection, while treatment efficacy is compromised by emerging drug resistance and systemic toxicity. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier in malaria research, offering innovative solutions to enhance both diagnosis and treatment strategies. This review explores the recent advancements and applications of nanotechnology in malaria diagnosis and treatment. Nanoparticle-based diagnostic tools, such as quantum dots and nanostructured biosensors, have demonstrated enhanced sensitivity and rapid detection capabilities, enabling early and accurate diagnosis even at low parasite densities. Moreover, nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery systems improve the bioavailability and efficacy of antimalarial drugs, while nano vaccines and immune therapeutics offer new avenues for enhancing immune responses and developing next-generation malaria vaccines. Despite these advancements, challenges such as regulatory approval, scalability, and long-term safety must be addressed to facilitate the clinical translation and global deployment of nanotechnology-based solutions. This review critically examines the current state of nanotechnology in malaria research, highlighting emerging trends, technological innovations, and future directions for overcoming existing challenges. By leveraging nanotechnology, researchers aim to revolutionize malaria control strategies and contribute to the global efforts towards malaria elimination and eradication.

Keywords: Malaria, Nanotechnology, Antimalarial drugs, Nano vaccines, Immunotherapeutic

CITE AS: Habimana Eric James (2024). Nanotechnology in Malaria Diagnosis and Treatment: Emerging Trends and Applications NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY, 5(2): 82-85. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJPP/2024/52398285