Single immunization with genetically attenuated Pf∆mei2 (GA2) parasites by mosquito bite in controlled human malaria infection: a placebo-controlled randomized trial.

Malaria vaccines consisting of metabolically active Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites can offer improved protection compared with currently deployed subunit vaccines. In a previous study, we demonstrated the superior protective efficacy of a three-dose regimen of late-arresting genetically attenuated parasites administered by mosquito bite (GA2-MB) compared with early-arresting counterparts (GA1-MB) against a homologous controlled human malaria infection. Encouraged by these results, we explored the potency of a single GA2-MB immunization in a placebo-controlled randomized trial.

Safety and Efficacy of Immunization with a Late-Liver-Stage Attenuated Malaria Parasite.

Background: Currently licensed and approved malaria subunit vaccines provide modest, short-lived protection against malaria. Immunization with live-attenuated malaria parasites is an alternative vaccination strategy that has potential to improve protection.

Methods: We conducted a double-blind, controlled clinical trial to evaluate the safety, side-effect profile, and efficacy of immunization, by means of mosquito bites, with a second-generation genetically attenuated parasite (GA2) - a single knockout NF54 parasite (sporozoite form) with extended development into the liver stage.

The paediatric liver transplant experience in Johannesburg, South Africa: A broad overview and update.

The Wits Transplant Unit performed its first paediatric liver transplant in 2005. Initial experiences from the unit were published in 2012 and 2014. Since then, significant progress has been made in capacity-building the unit, improving outcomes and enhancing service delivery.

ABO-incompatible liver transplantation - exploring utilitarian solutions to restricted access and organ shortages: A single-centre experience from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Background: Liver transplantation is the definitive management for severe acute liver failure refractory to supportive management, and end- stage chronic liver failure. Owing to a shortage of deceased liver donors, South Africa requires innovative techniques to broaden the donor pool.

Objectives: This study evaluated the outcomes of the Wits Transplant Unit ABO-incompatible liver transplant (ABOi-LT) programme.

Wits Transplant Unit Annual Report 2022: Adult and paediatric liver transplantation.

In 2022, the Wits Transplant Unit performed 57 liver transplants: 33/57 adult (58%) and 24/57 paediatric (42%) recipients. At the beginning of 2022, 28 candidates were on the adult waitlist. Forty-six candidates were added to the waitlist during the year.