The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 247 million people contracted malaria in 2021. 618,000 died, the majority of them children younger than five years old. The extreme toll wrought by malaria highlights the need for improved treatment methods.
How Are People Infected with Malaria?
People become infected with malaria when bitten by Anopheles mosquitoes carrying Plasmodium parasites. The mosquitos typically bite at night. When they bite, they inject parasites, called sporozoites, into now-infected hosts. The parasites then travel from the skin to the liver, where they multiply and cause illness.
Over ninety percent of malaria cases and deaths are in Sub-Saharan Africa.
How Do Natural Killer Cells Combat Malaria?
Natural killer (NK) cells are white blood cells that fight infection and disease. Evidence shows NK cells can kill the malaria parasite at a vulnerable stage of its lifecycle.
Antibodies attach to malaria-infected red blood cells. Afterward, NK cells can identify and destroy the infected cells. This process is known as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).
NK cells use couple of methods to kill malarial cells. Lysosomes are organelles within natural killers that release harsh compounds. Additionally, NK cells signal a rise in body temperature less hospitable to the infection.
MIT researchers created images showing malaria’s interaction with human natural killer (NK) cells. They also portray NK cells in various states of activation in response to the parasite.
How Can NK Cells Revolutionize Malaria Treatment?
NK cells are paving the foundation for new malaria vaccine development. Less-studied antigens yielded stronger NK activation than some well-known malaria antigens. More effective malaria vaccines would contain antigens that boost NK cells’ response.
Furthermore, doctors can now distinguish individuals who are immune or vulnerable to malaria. Additionally, new technology like single-cell RNA sequencing helps researchers better understand NK cells.
These findings will contribute to developing more personalized and effective treatments for malaria. Thus, they mark a significant step forward in fighting the disease.
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Logan Hamilton is a freelance writer for hire. He’s passionate about crafting crystal-clear, captivating, and credible content that elevates brands and establishes trust. When not writing, Logan can be found hiking, sticking his nose in bizarre books, or playing drums in a local rock band. Find him at loganjameshamilton.com.
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