Dr. Johanna P. Daily

Our primary research interest is in the biology, pathogenesis and immunology of Plasmodium falciparum. Patients infected with this parasite can be completely asymptomatic or develop severe disease resulting in death. The goal of our research has been to define the molecular mechanisms that underlie this variation in disease outcomes in P. falciparum. Toward this goal, we have developed a new pathogenesis model through the analysis of in vivo parasite biology and associated host factors using a whole genome and metabolomic approach. We have identified novel parasite biology when it resides in the human host and idnetified a putative mediator of coma in cerebral malaria.  We also are studying adjunctive therapy to improve outcomes in severe malaria using the animal model.   We carry out field based translational studies in cohorts infected with malaria in Africa and test hypothesis in the animal model of malaria.  The long term goal is to identify parasite and host processes involved in disease to serve as targets for vaccine or chemotherapeutic development.

Dr. Daily is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Malaria. Her top areas of expertise are Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis, Malaria, Togaviridae Disease, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Leg or Foot Amputation.

Her clinical research consists of co-authoring 63 peer reviewed articles. MediFind looks at clinical research from the past 15 years. In particular, she has co-authored 31 articles in the study of Malaria.