Understanding Host-Pathogen-Vector Interactions with Chronic Asymptomatic Malaria Infections.

Autor: Nyarko PB; Laboratory of Pathogen-Host Interaction (LPHI), CNRS, University of Montpellier, France., Claessens A; LPHI, MIVEGEC, CNRS, INSERM, University of Montpellier, France. Electronic address: antoine.claessens@umontpellier.fr.
Jazyk: angličtina
Zdroj: Trends in parasitology [Trends Parasitol] 2021 Mar; Vol. 37 (3), pp. 195-204. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Oct 27.
DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.09.017
Abstrakt: The last malaria parasite standing will display effective adaptations to selective forces. While substantial progress has been made in reducing malaria mortality, eradication will require elimination of all Plasmodium parasites, including those in asymptomatic infections. These typically chronic, low-density infections are difficult to detect, yet can persist for months. We argue that asymptomatic infection is the parasite's best asset for survival but it can be exploited if studied as a new model for host-pathogen-vector interactions. Regular sampling from cohorts of asymptomatic individuals can provide a means to investigate continuous parasite development within its natural host. State-of-the-art techniques can now be applied to such infections. This approach may reveal key molecular drivers of chronic infections - a critical step for malaria eradication.
(Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
Databáze: MEDLINE