Authors: Abigail A. Lamikanra, Michel Theron, Taco W. A. Kooij, David J. Roberts
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0008446
Abstract Summary
Hemozoin, a malaria parasite byproduct, directly inhibits red blood cell production by triggering cell death in developing blood cells. Contrary to previous theories, macrophages actually protect against this effect rather than enhance it. This discovery explains why children with severe malarial anemia fail to produce adequate new red blood cells despite normal erythropoietin levels.
Why Brain? đź§
Malarial pigment hemozoin directly triggers death of developing red blood cells, explaining severe anemia in malaria patients despite normal hormone levels. Macrophages protect against this effect.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
