Manuel Elkin Patarroyo

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Colombian immunologist known for developing a synthetic vaccine against malaria



Manuel Elkin Patarroyo

Manuel Elkin Patarroyo is a Colombian immunologist renowned for his pioneering work in the development of a synthetic vaccine against malaria. His research has significantly contributed to the field of tropical medicine and vaccine development.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Manuel Elkin Patarroyo was born on November 3, 1946, in Ataco, Tolima, Colombia. He pursued his medical studies at the National University of Colombia, where he developed a keen interest in immunology and infectious diseases.

Career[edit | edit source]

Patarroyo began his career as a researcher at the National Institute of Health in Colombia. His early work focused on the development of vaccines for various infectious diseases prevalent in tropical regions.

Development of the Malaria Vaccine[edit | edit source]

Patarroyo is best known for his development of the first synthetic vaccine against malaria, known as SPf66. This vaccine was developed in the 1980s and was a groundbreaking achievement in the fight against malaria, a disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.

Patarroyo in his laboratory

The SPf66 vaccine was synthesized using a combination of peptides that mimic the proteins found on the surface of the malaria parasite. This approach was innovative at the time and demonstrated the potential of synthetic vaccines in combating infectious diseases.

Challenges and Controversies[edit | edit source]

Despite the initial promise of SPf66, subsequent clinical trials produced mixed results, with varying efficacy in different populations. This led to debates within the scientific community regarding the vaccine's effectiveness and the challenges of developing a universal malaria vaccine.

Awards and Recognition[edit | edit source]

Patarroyo's contributions to medical science have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Prince of Asturias Award for Technical and Scientific Research in 1994. He has also been honored by various scientific organizations and institutions worldwide.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Manuel Elkin Patarroyo's work has inspired a new generation of researchers in the field of vaccine development. His efforts have highlighted the importance of synthetic vaccines and have paved the way for further advancements in combating infectious diseases.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD