This mini-review synthesises two uses of malaria serology: antibodies as markers of prior exposure for surveillance in low-incidence settings, and naturally acquired immunity as a route to vaccine targets. It emphasises neglected Plasmodium vivax and the need to understand antibody longevity. The paper is not a new diagnostic or vaccine evaluation.
Key findings
- Parasite-specific antibodies can estimate cumulative exposure and locate transmission, but markers differ in longevity and specificity. Studying antibodies in clinically immune populations can identify vaccine targets and functions, with major gaps remaining for P. vivax and other non-falciparum malaria.
Why this matters globally
The approach matters for elimination settings, resurgence and mobile populations where case surveillance alone may miss exposure. Implementation requires standardised assays, context-specific thresholds and validation against clinical and entomological data.
Thai researcher contribution
Rhea J. Longley is affiliated with Mahidol University's Mahidol Vivax Research Unit as well as the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and University of Melbourne, linking Thai vivax expertise to global surveillance and vaccine research.
Limitations to consider
A mini-review may not be exhaustive and includes no formal risk-of-bias appraisal. Antibodies vary with age, reinfection, treatment and cross-reactivity; seropositivity is not necessarily protection, and markers may not transfer across settings.
Verify the original sources
Infection and ImmunityRead the original article↗DOI: 10.1128/iai.00031-26