Authors: Claire Kidgell, Sarah K Volkman, Johanna Daily, Justin O Borevitz, David Plouffe, Yingyao Zhou, Jeffrey R Johnson, Karine G. Le Roch, Ousmane Sarr, Omar Ndir, Soulyemane Mboup, Serge Batalov, Dyann F Wirth, Elizabeth A Winzeler
DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.0020057
Abstract Summary
Genome-wide analysis of malaria parasites reveals ~500 rapidly evolving genes linked to immune evasion and drug resistance. Researchers identified novel gene amplifications, including one involving GTP cyclohydrolase in the folate pathway—potentially enabling resistance to antifolate antimalarials. These findings could guide development of new vaccines and inform strategic drug deployment against Plasmodium falciparum.
Why Brain? đź§
This genome-wide study identifies 500 rapidly evolving malaria genes, revealing new drug resistance mechanisms including amplification of folate pathway genes that may help parasites evade antifolate drugs.
License: CC BY.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
