RGCB finds Plasmodium falciparum hides in reticulocytes evading artemisinin drugs
Technology
Turns out, malaria treatments don't always work because of something in our own bodies.
Researchers at RGCB found that the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, hides out in immature red blood cells (called reticulocytes), which help it survive even when treated with artemisinin-based drugs.
Reticulocyte antioxidants and enzymes shield parasites
Reticulocytes are packed with antioxidants and enzymes that protect the parasite from drug effects, especially in children and people with anemia, who naturally have more of these cells.
This discovery could lead to smarter treatments that target how the parasite interacts with our cells, making drugs more effective and reducing relapses.