Inhibitory Effect of TNF-α on Malaria Pre-Erythrocytic Stage Development: Influence of Host Hepatocyte/Parasite Combinations
2011

How TNF-α Affects Malaria Development in the Liver

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Depinay Nadya, Franetich Jean Francois, Grüner Anne Charlotte, Mauduit Marjorie, Chavatte Jean-Marc, Luty Adrian J. F., van Gemert Geert-Jan, Sauerwein Robert W., Siksik Jean-Michel, Hannoun Laurent, Mazier Dominique, Snounou Georges, Rénia Laurent

Primary Institution: Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS, Paris, France

Hypothesis

What is the role of TNF-α in inhibiting the pre-erythrocytic stages of malaria parasites?

Conclusion

TNF-α treatment prevents the development of malaria pre-erythrocytic stages through the activity of a mediator that remains to be identified.

Supporting Evidence

  • TNF-α treatment prevents the development of malaria pre-erythrocytic stages.
  • Inhibition varies with the infecting parasite species and the type of hepatocytes used.
  • The inhibitory effect is mediated by a soluble factor from TNF-α stimulated hepatocytes.

Takeaway

Researchers found that a substance called TNF-α can stop malaria parasites from growing in the liver, but it only works if given before the parasites arrive.

Methodology

The study involved testing human and mouse TNF-α against malaria parasites in various cell types to assess its inhibitory effects.

Limitations

The study's findings may not directly translate to human infections due to differences in cytokine-host cell-parasite combinations.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0017464

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