The Efficacy of Monoclonal Antibodies for Prophylaxis and Treatment of Malaria: A Narrative Review of Clinical Trials

Chelimo Faith Rebecca

Department of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry Kampala International University Uganda

Email: rebecca.chelimo@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in endemic regions where conventional control measures face limitations due to drug resistance and logistical barriers. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as a promising strategy for both malaria prophylaxis and treatment, leveraging their high specificity and prolonged half-life to provide durable protection against Plasmodium infection. This narrative review synthesized findings from clinical trials investigating the efficacy of monoclonal antibodies in preventing and treating malaria. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to analyze the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic properties, clinical efficacy, and safety profiles of leading mAb candidates. Prophylactic mAbs, such as CIS43LS and L9LS, have demonstrated significant protection in controlled human malaria infection studies, with extended half-lives facilitating long-term prevention. Therapeutic mAbs targeting blood-stage parasites show potential for reducing parasite burden, particularly in drug-resistant cases. Despite their promise, challenges such as high production costs, potential resistance development, and integration into existing malaria control programs must be addressed. Future research should focus on large-scale field trials, cost-effective manufacturing, and synergistic implementation with vaccines and vector control measures. Monoclonal antibodies could play a pivotal role in malaria eradication efforts, provided that their accessibility and affordability challenges are adequately resolved.

Keywords: Monoclonal Antibodies, Malaria Prophylaxis, Malaria Treatment, Clinical Trials, Plasmodium Infection.

CITE AS: Chelimo Faith Rebecca (2025). The Efficacy of Monoclonal Antibodies for Prophylaxis and Treatment of Malaria: A Narrative Review of Clinical Trials. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 5(2):8-11. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2025/52811