CHILDREN are learning how scientists are using the latest genetic advances to combat malaria.

Experts from the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP) at York University are running workshops in schools across Yorkshire.

They have been explaining how their Artemisia Project is helping improve the supply of anti-malarial treatments.

The sessions give teenage pupils a unique insight into how science learned in the classroom is applied to real world problems.

Students from Holmfirth High School have been involved with the project.

They got the chance to work with a powerful fluorescence microscope used in the development of anti-malaria drugs.

The microscope is used to look at trichomes on the surface of Artemisia annua leaves. The plant is currently the sole source of the leading anti-malaria drug.

Trichomes are clusters on the glandular cells on the leaf surface that produce chemicals, including artemisinin, which is used to treat the mosquito-transmitted disease.

Following a successful workshop for Year 10 and 11 pupils, the school invited the university’s team back to host a further session.

Pupil Laura Nunez-Mulder, 16, said: “It was really interesting to see how the things we learned applied in real life, especially for such an important project.

“The best bit was using the really expensive microscope, as we could see things we’d never be able to see with our own equipment.”