A gene instrumental in combating malaria, PfAP2-MRP, has been isolated by a research team from King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), in collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Kaust).

 

The gene is essential in the replication process of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes the most lethal strain of malaria.

 

Advanced laboratory techniques enabled the Saudi researchers, who worked alongside researchers from the UK, the US, and India, to inhibit the PfAP2-MRP gene, revealing its critical role in the malaria parasite’s life cycle within red blood cells. 

 

Impactful discovery

This inhibition significantly disrupts the parasite’s ability to reproduce, reducing the severity of the disease’s symptoms and curbing its spread. This discovery is particularly impactful as it addresses Plasmodium falciparum malaria, which claims over half a million lives annually.

 

Dr Ashraf Dada, Chairman of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at KFSH&RC in Jeddah and the lead researcher, stated: "This discovery paves the way for the development of more effective treatments for the deadliest malaria strain, Plasmodium falciparum.” 

 

Also, this study enhances the scientific community’s understanding of the disease’s progression and its interaction with the human immune system, thereby strengthening efforts to combat this widespread malaria parasite prevalent in Africa.

 

Future therapeutic strategies

Furthermore, the research demonstrated that the PfAP2-MRP gene regulates the production of genetically diverse protein receptors, allowing the parasite to evade the host’s immune system. This mechanism plays a significant role in the global spread of malaria and underscores the gene’s importance in developing future therapeutic strategies.

 

Published in the prestigious journal "Nature" this noteworthy study is part of a close collaboration between KFSH&RC and Kaust to engage in innovative research activities aimed at not only improving the diagnosis of microbes, bacteria, and parasites, but also underscores a global effort to combat pathogens and improve human health.

 

KFSH&RC stands among the global leaders in providing specialised healthcare, driving innovation, and serving as an advanced medical research and education hub.--TradeArabia News Service