VinUni Receives USD 635,000 for Phase 2 Clinical Trial of a Novel Malaria Treatment
March 23, 2026
At VinUniversity, research projects are consistently guided by real-world applicability and community needs – especially in areas that directly impact human health and well-being. Recently, Prof. Huynh Dinh Chien, Director of the Preclinical Laboratory System and Head of Year 1, MD Program at VinUniversity, together with international collaborators, received a USD 635,000 grant from Purdue University – one of the leading U.S. institutions renowned for science, technology, and biomedical research.
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The grant supports the project: “Phase 2 study of a triple-drug antimalarial combination (Imatinib, Artesunate, Pyronaridine – IMAPYR) for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria.”
A Comprehensive Step Forward in Malaria Treatment
Prof. Chien’s team has developed a new therapeutic approach with the potential to clear malaria parasites more quickly and effectively, while minimizing the risk of drug resistance – one of the greatest challenges facing current antimalarial medications.
This innovation received a patent in Italy in 2019 and is now under review for patent approval in the United States following its submission in 2022. Building on promising laboratory results, the team is moving forward with a Phase 2 clinical trial in malaria-endemic areas of Vietnam.
From Lab to Real-World Settings: Where the Trials Will Take Place
To evaluate the therapy’s safety and effectiveness under real-world conditions, the clinical trial will be conducted at two sites:
- Huong Hoa (Quang Tri): In a Van Kieu community where a previous trial had been conducted under the leadership of Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, with support from Hulow Co., Ltd. and Purdue University.
- Khanh Vinh (Khanh Hoa): At the Khanh Vinh Medical Center, led by the Quy Nhon Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, with funding from Purdue University and VinUniversity.
The First Steps Toward Bringing Research Closer to the Community
To prepare for patient-based trials, an initial disbursement of USD 15,000 has been allocated to support preparatory activities and study documentation. The study has received institutional approval from the Quy Nhon Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology and is currently being finalized for submission to Vietnam’s Ministry of Health for official approval. Once Ministry approval is obtained, the project will move into Phase 2 clinical trials with patients in malaria-endemic regions.
This project not only reflects the research team’s dedication to finding new treatment solutions but also highlights the role of science when it is closely connected to genuine community needs. VinUniversity will continue supporting scientists in their efforts to bring research closer to real life -working toward a healthier future for all.
