Genetic Factors in Clearing Drug-Resistant Malaria
Author Information
Author(s): Diakite Mahamadou, Achidi Eric A, Achonduh Olivia, Craik Rachel, Djimde Abdoulaye A, Evehe Marie-Solange B, Green Angie, Hubbart Christina, Ibrahim Muntasir, Jeffreys Anna, Khan Baldip K, Kimani Francis, Kwiatkowski Dominic P, Mbacham Wilfred F, Jezan Sabah Omar, Ouedraogo Jean Bosco, Rockett Kirk, Rowlands Kate, Tagelsir Nawal, Tekete Mamadou M, Zongo Issaka, Ranford-Cartwright Lisa C
Primary Institution: Malaria Research and Training Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontostomatology, University of Bamako, Mali
Hypothesis
This study aimed to identify molecular markers in the human genome that correlate with the clearance of malaria parasites after drug treatment, despite the drug resistance profile of the protozoan.
Conclusion
The study showed significant association of three loci in the human genome with the ability of parasite to clear drug-resistant P. falciparum in samples taken from five countries across sub-Saharan Africa.
Supporting Evidence
- Three SNPs showed significant association with clearance of drug-resistant parasites.
- Individuals with certain genetic variants were more likely to clear drug-resistant malaria.
- The study included data from five African countries, enhancing the generalizability of the findings.
Takeaway
Some people can get rid of malaria parasites that are resistant to drugs, and this study found specific genes in their DNA that help them do that.
Methodology
The study analyzed 3721 samples from patients in five African countries, focusing on 67 human polymorphisms (SNPs) to identify genetic factors associated with the clearance of drug-resistant malaria.
Potential Biases
The study may have biases related to the varying levels of acquired immunity in different populations and the age distribution of participants.
Limitations
The P-values were not corrected for multiple testing, which may affect the reliability of the associations.
Participant Demographics
Participants were from five African countries, aged from 5 months to over 50 years, with a mix of genders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005 for SNP rs2706384
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.71-0.92 for SNP rs2706384
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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