Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene TherapyDec 31, 2025

Using CRISPR Technology to Study Malaria Drug Resistance in Africa

CRISPR Gene Editing Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jun 27, 2026

Abstract

Essence

CRISPR-Cas9 could help malaria drug-resistance research in Africa, but its regional use remains limited.

Evidence

This review and systematic scoping review summarizes CRISPR-Cas9 applications for Plasmodium falciparum resistance pathways, molecular marker validation, diagnostics, and African malaria research coverage.

Caveat

The abstract reports low application and adoption, with technological and regulatory barriers limiting current evidence of practical impact.

Simplified

Malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where Plasmodium falciparum is increasingly resistant to frontline antimalarial therapies. CRISPR-Cas9, a groundbreaking genome editing tool, has become a transformative force in biomedical research, offering valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying drug resistance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the CRISPR-Cas9 system, its origin, evolution, and application in antimalarial drug-resistance research, with particular emphasis on African studies. We examine the role of CRISPR in elucidating resistance pathways, validating molecular markers, and enhancing diagnostic strategies. Additionally, a systematic scoping review highlights the geographic scope and focus of CRISPR-related malaria research conducted across Africa. Significantly low application and adoption were observed. Despite existing technological and regulatory barriers, CRISPR holds strong potential for accelerating antimalarial drug discovery and advancing precision medicine. Its strategic application in malaria-endemic regions could significantly bolster efforts toward disease control and eventual elimination.