Drug Discovery for Antimalarial Agents: An Updated Review

Abstract

Background: Malaria, a significant global health challenge, is caused by Plasmodium species and transmitted by mosquitoes. Despite control efforts, malaria remains prevalent, with 247 million cases and 619,000 deaths reported in 2021. Challenges such as drug resistance, climate change, and limited healthcare access hinder eradication efforts. Historical treatments based on natural compounds like quinine and artemisinin have saved millions of lives but face resistance issues.

Aim: This review aims to provide an updated understanding of antimalarial drug discovery, current therapies, emerging resistance mechanisms, and innovative strategies to combat resistance and improve treatment outcomes.

Methods: The review synthesizes recent literature on antimalarial therapies, drug resistance mechanisms, and next-generation drug discovery. It highlights innovative partnerships and strategies addressing the limitations of current treatments.

Results: Current therapies, primarily artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), remain effective but face growing resistance challenges. Resistance mechanisms, including mutations in Plasmodium genes like kelch13 and PfCRT, compromise drug efficacy. Innovations in drug discovery focus on novel compounds with unique mechanisms, long-acting formulations, and better tolerability in vulnerable populations. Public-private partnerships, such as the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), play a pivotal role in advancing accessible and effective treatments.

Conclusion: Despite progress, antimalarial drug resistance poses a persistent threat, necessitating continuous innovation. Collaborative efforts in research and development, integrating next-generation therapies and robust resistance monitoring, are critical for sustainable malaria control. Enhancing accessibility and affordability in endemic regions remains paramount.