Research teams
Parasite Biology and Immunology
The Parasite Biology Section is central to the Mahidol Vivax Research Unit’s mission to combat Plasmodium vivax malaria. This section focuses on understanding the parasite’s biology, including hypnozoite dormancy, relapse, and transmission, to address critical knowledge gaps. By developing advanced models and tools, the section supports the creation of novel diagnostics, vaccines, and targeted treatments. Collaborative efforts with other MVRU sections ensure that biological insights drive practical solutions, aligning with the goal of interrupting malaria transmission.
The Parasite Biology Section is positioned at the forefront of P. vivax research, emphasizing global leadership and capacity building. By leveraging its expertise and fostering partnerships, the section contributes to shaping effective health policies and driving meaningful progress in the global fight against malaria, aligning with the MVRU's mission to create transformative solutions.
Led by Dr. Wanlapa Roobsoong, the team includes Pinyapat Kongngen, Akarat Duangkhong, and Sarinya Sirivisitakul, who bring diverse expertise to advance the objectives of the Parasite Biology Section.
Wanlapa Roobsoong
Parasite biology and immunology team leader | Parasite Biology
My research is focus on the molecular mechanism of gametocytogenesis and hypnozoite formation of P. vivax with an emphasis to discover new antimalaria drugs/ vaccines. My research is also invent the use of advance technology of humanized mouse model and iPS cell in P. vivax research. I also lead the G6PD team.
Publications
Thitinan Kitisin
Parasite biology and immunology | Malaria Diagnosis
My research interest aims to deepen the understanding of mammalian host immune responses to malaria infection as it is important for better design and development of diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines.
Publications
Thananya Jinato
PhD researcher
My current expertise focuses on developing human tonsil organoids to model immune responses to vaccination in vitro. I aim to explore how the immune system reacts to vaccines, particularly in malaria research, with the goal of contributing to improved vaccine design and evaluation.
Email:thananya.jin@mahidol.ac.th
Publication
Kyawt Mon Win
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
A malaria epidemiologist with 10 years of experience in malaria program management and research. My work focuses on malaria epidemiology, surveillance systems, radical cure of P. vivax, and clinical trials, with a strong interest in translating evidence into effective public health interventions for malaria control and elimination.
Email:kyawt.mon@mahidol.ac.th
Publication
Kanpitcha Khunsan
Research Assistant
I am working on the parasite biology observation techniques, such as immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and the ultrastructure-expansion microscopy (U-ExM), with the in vitro liver stage of Plasmodium vivax.
Email:kanpitcha.khu@mahidol.ac.th
Pinyapat Kongngen
Research Technical officer
I am experimental trained on the basic cell biology. I am currently working on the in vitro anti-liver stage drugs screening of P. vivax.
Email : pinyapat.kon@mahidol.ac.th
Sarinya Sirivisitakul
Research Technical Officer
I am working on developing a malaria vaccine as a part of MIST project.
Email: sarinya.sir@gmail.com