A high affinity human monoclonal antibody against Pfs230 binds multiple parasite stages and blocks oocyst formation in mosquitoes

Malaria elimination requires tools that interrupt parasite transmission. Here, we characterized B cell receptor responses among Malian adults vaccinated against the first domain of the cysteine-rich 230kDa gamete surface protein Pfs2301-3 to neutralize sexual stage P. falciparum parasites and halt their further spread. We generated nine Pfs230 human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). One mAb potently blocked transmission to mosquitoes in a complement-dependent manner and reacted strongly to gamete surface while eight mAbs showed only low or no blocking activity. This study provides a rational basis to improve malaria vaccines and develop therapeutic antibodies for malaria elimination.