The sickle cell trait is an example of one that seems to offer a natural survival advantage in children where malaria is common. Researchers at the Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research are investigating ways in which the blood cell traits can offer such protection, and new knowledge gained can bring about medical advances. Of particular importance is studying how the malaria organism, Plasmodium, survives inside different red blood cells. A steady, consistent, and reliable supply of fresh whole blood is necessary for testing.