Samarth College of Pharmacy, Belhe, Pune, India 412410.
Malaria, primarily caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, continues to pose significant public health challenges, particularly due to the rise of drug-resistant strains. A clear understanding of the disease’s pathophysiology and the underlying mechanisms of antimalarial resistance is essential for effective management. Nanotechnology-based approaches, such as liposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), and metallic nanoparticles, have emerged as promising strategies to improve drug delivery, enhance bioavailability, and overcome resistance. Green nanotechnology offers sustainable therapeutic options. Advances in molecular surveillance and bioinformatics enable real-time monitoring of resistant parasites, supporting targeted interventions. Adherence to current treatment guidelines and ongoing research into novel drugs, combination therapies, immunotherapies, and vector control provide a comprehensive framework to tackle malaria and limit the spread of resistance.
Malaria continues to be a major public health concern worldwide, primarily caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax and transmitted via bites from infected Anopheles mosquitoes.(1) The disease is characterized by a complex life cycle, including liver-stage multiplication and repeated invasion of red blood cells, resulting in clinical symptoms such as fever, anemia, and organ impairment. The growing problem of antimalarial drug resistance in both P. falciparum and P. vivax has posed significant challenges to effective treatment, driven by genetic mutations, selective drug pressure, and parasite adaptability. To address these issues, nanotechnology-based strategies-including liposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), and metallic nanoparticles-have been explored to improve drug delivery, solubility, and therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, green nanotechnology offers environmentally friendly approaches for antimalarial interventions. Advances in molecular surveillance and bioinformatics facilitate monitoring of resistance trends and inform the development of novel antimalarial drugs and updated treatment guidelines. (2) This review provides a comprehensive overview of resistance mechanisms, nanotechnological innovations, and emerging strategies in malaria management.
Pathophysiology of Malaria:
Malaria is an infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most virulent species. The disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which inject the parasite into the human bloodstream in the form of sporozoites.(3) Once inside the host, these sporozoites migrate to the liver, where they invade hepatocytes and undergo a period of asexual replication, producing thousands of merozoites. After the liver stage is complete, the hepatocytes rupture releasing merozoites into the circulatory system, where they invade red blood cells (RBCs). This initiates the erythrocytic stage of infection, characterized by repeated cycles of parasite growth, RBC rupture, and reinvasion of new erythrocytes.
Fig No: 1: Pathophysiology of Malaria.
The destruction of RBCs, coupled with the release of parasite-derived toxins, is responsible for the clinical manifestations of malaria, including intermittent fever, chills, sweating, anemia, and fatigue. (4) In severe cases, extensive RBC destruction and inflammatory responses can lead to organ dysfunction, affecting organs such as the brain, kidneys, and liver, and may result in complications like cerebral malaria, jaundice, or acute renal failure. The erythrocytic cycle is central to the pathophysiology of malaria, as it not only drives the symptomatic phase of the disease but also facilitates transmission, since gametocytes produced during this stage can be taken up by mosquitoes, perpetuating the parasite’s life cycle. Understanding this multi-stage life cycle is crucial for developing effective diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies against malaria. (5)
Mechanisms of Antimalarial Drug Resistance:
Antimalarial drug resistance develops when Plasmodium parasites continue to survive and reproduce even in the presence of antimalarial drugs. This phenomenon is primarily driven by genetic mutations that alter the parasite’s susceptibility to treatment (6) A key example is the mutation in the PfCRT (Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter) gene, which is responsible for resistance to chloroquine, one of the earliest and most widely used antimalarial drugs. Similarly, mutations in the dhfr (dihydrofolate reductase) and dhps (dihydropteroate synthase) genes confer resistance to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, drugs that target the folate synthesis pathway essential for parasite growth and replication. In addition to genetic alterations, the parasite employs efflux mechanisms involving transporter proteins such as PfMDR1 (multidrug resistance protein 1), which actively pump drugs out of the parasite’s cells, thereby lowering the intracellular drug concentration and reducing their effectiveness.(7) Furthermore, metabolic adaptations—particularly changes within the folate biosynthesis pathway—help the parasite bypass the inhibitory action of antifolate drugs, enhancing its ability to resist treatment. Emerging evidence also suggests that malaria parasites may form biofilm-like aggregates, which offer a physical and biochemical shield against drug exposure, although this mechanism is more commonly associated with bacterial resistance. Overall, antimalarial drug resistance represents a complex interplay of genetic mutations, altered drug transport, and adaptive metabolic changes, posing a significant challenge to malaria control and necessitating the continuous development of new therapeutic strategies. (8)
Table No: 1: Mechanisms of Antimalarial Drug Resistance
Mechanism Type |
Key Genes / Proteins |
Drugs Affected |
Mechanism / Effect |
Outcome |
Genetic Mutations |
PfCRT |
Chloroquine |
Alters transporter function →prevents drug accumulation in parasite’s digestive vacuole |
Reduced chloroquine efficacy |
Genetic Mutations |
dhfr, dhps |
Sulfadoxine -pyrimethamine |
Mutations alter enzyme binding sites in folate pathway |
Resistance to antifolates
|
Drug Efflux Mechanisms |
PfMDR1 (multidrug resistance protein 1) |
Multiple (e.g., mefloquine, chloroquine) |
Actively pumps drugs out of parasite cells → lowers intracellular concentration |
Decreased drug sensitivity |
Metabolic Adaptations |
PfMDR1 (multidrug resistance protein 1) |
Antifolate drugs |
Parasite reconfigures metabolism to bypass inhibited pathway |
Sustained growth despite drug |
Biofilm-like Aggregation |
|
Various (emerging mechanism) |
Formation of protective aggregates reduces drug exposure |
Increased toleranc |
Plasmodium:
Plasmodium proteases are vital enzymes that play a central role in the survival, growth, and pathogenicity of the malaria parasite. These enzymes participate in several crucial biological processes, including erythrocyte invasion, hemoglobin degradation, immune evasion, and inflammatory responses within the host. By breaking down host cell components, they enable the parasite to acquire essential nutrients and establish infection effectively. (9)
The Plasmodium genus possesses a wide range of proteases, categorized into aspartate, serine, cysteine, metalloproteases, threonine, and glutamate proteases, each with distinct biochemical functions. (10) These proteolytic enzymes are considered promising molecular targets for the development of novel antimalarial drugs because inhibiting their activity can disrupt vital metabolic and developmental pathways in the parasite. One of their most important roles lies in the degradation of hemoglobin within infected red blood cells, a process essential for parasite nutrition and maturation. (11) Among these, cysteine proteases have been identified as particularly crucial for the parasite’s lifecycle. They are primarily responsible for hydrolyzing hemoglobin, thereby supplying amino acids necessary for parasite survival and replication. Additionally, these enzymes are implicated in facilitating parasite egress and invasion of new erythrocytes, processes critical for the continuation of infection. Targeting these proteases with specific inhibitors can effectively block hemoglobin digestion and interrupt the parasite’s growth cycle within red blood cells. Consequently, Plasmodium proteases—especially cysteine proteases—represent attractive and strategic therapeutic targets for developing next-generation antimalarial agents aimed at overcoming resistance and improving treatment efficacy. (12)
Resistance to Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum:
Effective malaria control requires a deep understanding of the four fundamental concepts that influence treatment outcomes—recurrence, recrudescence, relapse, and resistance, collectively known as the 4R’s. (13) These mechanisms explain why malaria infections may return after treatment and play a critical role in developing effective therapeutic strategies. Recurrence is a general term that refers to the reappearance of malaria parasites in the blood after treatment has been completed. This can occur either because of a new infection acquired from another mosquito bite or due to the reemergence of parasites from the same infection that were not completely cleared by therapy. (14) In particular, describes a situation in which the parasites from the original infection survive because of inadequate drug levels, poor adherence, or drug resistance, and then multiply again, leading to renewed symptoms.
Relapse, which is unique to Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale, occurs when dormant liver forms called hypnozoites become reactivated weeks or even months after the initial infection. (15) These hypnozoites release parasites back into the bloodstream, triggering another bout of malaria even without a new mosquito bite. Resistance represents the parasite’s ability to withstand and survive antimalarial drugs, even when administered at the correct dose and duration. This phenomenon often arises from genetic mutations that alter drug targets or enhance the parasite’s drug efflux mechanisms, making treatment less effective. Among all malaria species, P. vivax is particularly important due to its wide distribution and its contribution to global morbidity and mortality. (16) Its capacity to cause repeated relapses greatly complicates eradication efforts. The first-line therapy for P. vivax malaria has traditionally been chloroquine, which acts on blood-stage parasites. However, since the late 20th century, chloroquine-resistant strains have emerged, especially across Asia, Oceania, and parts of South America, diminishing its therapeutic effectiveness. (17)
To overcome this issue, combination therapy with chloroquine and primaquine is commonly used. Chloroquine clears the parasites in the bloodstream, while primaquine targets hypnozoites in the liver, thereby preventing relapses. (18) Yet, primaquine poses a serious risk for patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd)-a hereditary condition that can cause hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) when exposed to the drug. To ensure safety, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends screening for G6PD deficiency before primaquine administration and following carefully adjusted dosing regimens. (19)
Nanotechnological Approaches for Malaria Therapy:
Recent progress in antimalarial therapy continues to rely largely on chemotherapy, which, despite its effectiveness, faces major limitations such as adverse side effects and the rapid emergence of drug-resistant Plasmodium strains (20) The increasing resistance to existing drugs and the high global disease burden emphasize the urgent need for novel antimalarial agents. However, the drug discovery and development process remains challenging due to its high cost, long duration, and the parasite’s complex life cycle, which complicates the identification of effective drug targets. To overcome these challenges, collaborative initiatives involving, academic research center and pharmaceutical industries are actively developing and testing new therapeutic compounds against Plasmodium species (21)
In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach to enhance the efficacy, specificity, and safety of antimalarial drugs. The use of nanocarrier-based delivery systems, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions, offers several advantages. (22) These nanosystems can improve drug solubility and bioavailability, promote targeted delivery to infected erythrocytes, and reduce systemic toxicity. Additionally, nanocarriers can enable the co-delivery of multiple drugs, supporting combination therapy strategies that minimize the risk of resistance development. Overall, the integration of nanotechnology with conventional chemotherapy represents a modern and effective direction in malaria treatment, aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes and overcome the limitations of traditional antimalarial approaches. (23)
Liposomes:
Liposomes are nanoscale carriers composed of cholesterol and natural phospholipids, widely utilized for targeted drug delivery to enhance therapeutic efficacy and cellular uptake. Structurally, they are spherical vesicles made up of one or more lipid bilayers, capable of encapsulating both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs due to their unique amphiphilic nature. (24) Their biocompatibility, adjustable surface charge, and nanosized dimensions contribute to improved drug stability, prolonged circulation, and controlled release within the body. Originally described by Bangham as “smectic mesophases,” these structures were later termed liposomes, marking a significant advancement in drug delivery research. Their ability to protect drugs from degradation and deliver them directly to target cells has made them valuable in antimalarial therapy. For instance, Ibrahim et al. demonstrated that trans platinum–chloroquine diphosphate dichloride-loaded liposomes exhibited strong antiplasmodial activity, highlighting the potential of liposomal formulations in enhancing the efficacy of conventional antimalarial drugs while minimizing systemic toxicity (25)
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs):
Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) represent a second-generation advancement in lipid-based drug delivery systems, developed to overcome the limitations associated with solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). (26) NLCs offer several advantages, including improved solubility, permeability, bioavailability, and stability, along with targeted drug delivery and reduced toxicity. They also prolong the half-life of drugs, ensuring sustained therapeutic action and minimizing dosing frequency. Due to their biocompatibility and non-immunogenic nature, NLCs are highly suitable for biomedical applications. (27) Research findings have demonstrated that artemether-loaded NLCs exhibit significantly enhanced antimalarial efficacy in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice compared to the conventional free drug formulation. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends artemether-lumefantrine as a standard treatment for malaria, its low solubility and limited bioavailability restrict its clinical performance. The NLC formulation helps to overcome these drawbacks by improving the drug’s pharmacokinetic profile. (28) Similarly, curcumin-loaded NLCs have shown greater antimalarial potency than free curcumin, demonstrating the ability of this nanocarrier system to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Thus, NLCs present a promising platform for developing next-generation antimalarial formulations with improved safety and effectiveness (29)
Metallic Nanoparticles:
Metal oxide nanoparticles, including those derived from aluminium, silver, and other metals, have emerged as valuable tools in modern medicine, particularly for treating microbial and parasitic infections (30) Among them, silver nanoparticles have demonstrated notable antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria. Their mechanism of action involves the disruption of β-hematin formation, a crucial step in the parasite’s detoxification process. Moreover, coating these nanoparticles with poly(4,4′-diaminodiphenyl sulphone) (PDSS) significantly enhances their stability and antiparasitic efficacy, resulting in improved therapeutic performance. Similarly, titanium dioxide (TiO?) nanoparticles synthesized using the aqueous extract of Momordica charantia (bitter melon) leaves as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent have shown promising protective effects against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains of P. falciparum (31) This eco-friendly synthesis approach highlights the potential of plant-mediated nanoparticle production in malaria therapy. Furthermore, artesunate-loaded, surface-modified iron oxide nanoparticles exhibit superior antiplasmodial activity compared to free artesunate. Their enhanced efficacy is attributed to the increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the parasite’s food vacuole, leading to oxidative stress and parasite death. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the significant potential of metal oxide-based nanocarriers in advancing next-generation antimalarial treatments (32)
Green Nanotechnology:
Green nanotechnology has emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach in the development of nanocomplexes for malaria control. This method utilizes plant-based extracts as natural reducing and stabilizing agents, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals during nanoparticle synthesis. (33) A key advancement in this field is the formulation of silver nanoparticles derived from Andro graphis paniculate, which have shown potent antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum, the most virulent malaria parasite.
Similarly, bioactive compounds extracted from Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Ashoka (Saraca asoca) plants have demonstrated the ability to inhibit Plasmodium growth, supporting their traditional use in antimalarial remedies (34) Further research has highlighted the efficacy of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Catharanthus roseus, which display strong parasite-killing activity due to their enhanced surface reactivity and stability. Additionally, zinc oxide (ZNO) nanoparticles produced using the aqueous peel decoction of Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd) have been found to effectively block hemozoin formation, an essential process for parasite detoxification and survival within red blood cells. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of green-synthesized metal nanoparticles as innovative, eco-safe, and efficient alternatives to conventional antimalarial therapies, aligning modern nanoscience with sustainable medicinal practices (35)
Advances in Molecular Surveillance and Bioinformatics:
Molecular surveillance of antimalarial drug resistance increasingly depends on Plasmodium genomics to identify genetic markers associated with resistance. The application of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and other population genetics approaches has transformed our understanding of the emergence, mechanisms, and spread of drug-resistant parasites, providing critical insights for both the Global Technical Strategy and national malaria control programs. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, particularly targeted amplicon deep sequencing (TADS), are now widely employed to track molecular markers of resistance. These methods allow high-sensitivity, high-throughput analyses, and the declining costs along with increased data output have positioned NGS as a superior alternative to traditional PCR-based approaches. (36) Techniques such as pooled sequencing, which combine DNA from multiple infected individuals, further enhance the efficiency and throughput of sample analysis. Alongside these advances, improvements in bioinformatics tools for analyzing TADS data have become essential to handle the large volumes of sequencing information effectively. Despite these technological gains, significant challenges remain for the broad implementation of NGS-based surveillance. Key obstacles include the need for advanced laboratory infrastructure, specialized equipment, and trained personnel, which are often limited in resource-constrained regions where malaria is endemic. Recent reviews, such as those by Ishengoma et al., highlight these barriers and emphasize the need for strategic investment to fully integrate NGS-based molecular surveillance into routine malaria control programs (37)
New Antimalarial Drugs:
Over the past decade, the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) has played a pivotal role in supporting the research, development, and clinical evaluation of new antimalarial drugs, aiming to address the growing challenge of drug-resistant malaria. Among the notable candidates emerging from these efforts is KAF156 (ganaplacide), developed by the Genomics Institute of Novartis. KAF156 demonstrates a robust pharmacokinetic profile and exhibits potent activity against resistant strains of Plasmodium. Its rapid parasite clearance and favorable safety profile have positioned it as a promising therapeutic option. Currently, KAF156 is undergoing phase IIb clinical trials in combination with lumefantrine, reflecting a strategy to enhance efficacy and reduce the likelihood of resistance development. (38)
Another significant advancement is Artefenomel (OZ439), a synthetic peroxide designed to target malaria parasites effectively while minimizing adverse effects. Clinical studies have highlighted its potent antimalarial activity, including against artemisinin-resistant strains, making it a strong candidate for next-generation therapies. (39) Its chemical stability and long half-life support flexible dosing schedules, enhancing patient adherence and treatment outcomes. Ferroquine, a structural analog of chloroquine, has also emerged as a promising drug, particularly for overcoming chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium strains. Its antimalarial action is mediated through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the parasite, resulting in effective parasite killing. Ferroquine’s compatibility with combination therapies further enhances its therapeutic potential. The combination of Artefenomel and Ferroquine is currently being evaluated in phase IIb trials, representing a strategic approach to simultaneously target multiple parasite pathways and address the challenge of drug resistance. Together, these developments illustrate MMV’s critical role in fostering innovative antimalarial solutions (40) By advancing compounds with improved pharmacokinetics, broad-spectrum activity, and combination potential, MMV contributes significantly to the global effort to combat resistant malaria and improve treatment outcomes for affected populations worldwide.
Drug Resistance Development:
Effective planning to treatment malaria drug resistance requires a thorough understanding of its underlying causes and potential progression. Resistance in Plasmodium falciparum develops through a two-step process: an initial genetic mutation followed by the spread of resistant strains. Studies indicate that mutation rates vary geographically, with notable differences between Southeast Asia and West Africa. Drug pressure, particularly the presence and timing of antimalarials in the bloodstream, plays a key role in selecting resistant parasites. The immune status of the community also influences resistance dynamics, as populations with lower immunity are more susceptible to the spread of resistant strains (41). From a therapeutic perspective, the parasite depends heavily on anaerobic glycolysis, rapidly importing glucose and exporting lactic acid via a lactate-H? symporter, representing a potential drug target. Additionally, the P-type Na? ATPase (PfATP4), essential for maintaining sodium homeostasis, is another critical target. Inhibitors of these transport systems are under investigation, with several compounds progressing through preclinical and clinical development, offering promising for next-generation antimalarial therapies aimed at overcoming resistance (42)
Future Prospects and Research Directions:
Efforts to address antimalarial drug resistance are increasingly focused on a comprehensive, multi-dimensional research strategy encompassing drug development, parasite biology, public health, and policy interventions. A primary area of focus is the development of novel antimalarial agents with innovative mechanisms of action to overcome resistance (43) With the help of developments in parasite biology and genetics, next-generation medications are being developed to target certain molecular weaknesses of Plasmodium. Combination medicines continue to be an important strategy, with the goal of increasing treatment effectiveness while reducing the establishment of resistant strains. The processes by which parasites acquire resistance are still being clarified by parallel biological and genetic research, offering useful targets for treatment. (44) Genomic surveillance is being expanded to track the spread of drug-resistant strains in real-time, enabling timely adjustments in treatment strategies. The adoption of precision medicine approaches interventions based on the genetic profile of the parasite, optimizing treatment outcomes. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research supports the establishment of effective dosing regimens. In addition, exploration of immunotherapies, including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, provides pathways for long term protection (45)
Efforts also extend to innovative vector control strategies, improved data integration, and community engagement to understand local treatment practices and challenges. Adopting a One Health approach global collaboration, advocating for supportive research policies, and building capacity and training for local researchers and healthcare professionals are essential components for sustainable resistance management. All of these studies work together to effectively provide a detailed strategy for drug-resistant malaria, ensuring both scientific progress and real-world applications in endemic areas. (46)
Malaria Treatment Guidelines:
Current malaria treatment guidelines emphasize the importance of integrating both clinical assessment and laboratory confirmation to ensure accurate diagnosis. While common symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and malaise may indicate malaria, they are not definitive, as these signs overlap with other febrile illnesses. Therefore, diagnostic confirmation using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) or microscopy of blood smears is essential before initiating treatment, enabling targeted therapy and reducing the risk of unnecessary drug use (47). The first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria is based on Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapies (ACTs). These regimens pair a fast-acting artemisinin derivative with a longer-acting partner drug, achieving rapid reduction of parasite load while preventing recrudescence (48) The combination approach not only quickly alleviates symptoms such as fever and malaise but also enhances parasite clearance, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. Guidelines also highlight the importance of adherence to dosing schedules, consideration of age and weight-based dosing, and monitoring for potential adverse effects. By combining careful clinical evaluation, laboratory verification, and evidence-based treatment with ACTs, healthcare providers can optimize therapeutic outcomes, improve patient recovery, and contribute to malaria control and resistance management efforts in endemic regions (49-53)
CONCLUSION:
Because of the increase of drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax genotypes, malaria remains a major worldwide health concern. A thorough understanding of the disease’s pathophysiology and mechanisms of resistance is essential for effective control. Innovative nanotechnological strategies, including liposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, and metallic nanoparticles, show considerable potential in enhancing treatment, while plant-based green nanotechnology offers sustainable alternatives. Advances in molecular surveillance, bioinformatics, and genomic analysis facilitate timely detection of resistance patterns. Strict adherence to clinical treatment recommendations is essential, as is the continuous development of new antimalarial drugs, combination therapy, and precision medicine techniques. For malaria to be effectively treated and the spread of resistant parasites to be stopped, international cooperation, technical advancement, and concerted research efforts are essential.
REFERENCES
Trupti Mate, Ajay Bhagwat, Vaishnavi Auti, Sakshi Pawar, Pravin Ambhore*, Pathophysiology of Malaria and Its Implications for Drug Resistance and Future Therapies, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 10, 1628-1640 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17367862