Malaria
Scientists identify a rocket-fuel-like reaction that propels spinning iron crystals inside malaria parasites
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University of Utah researchers report that iron-rich hemozoin crystals inside the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum move through the parasite’s digestive compartment because reactions involving hydrogen peroxide at the crystal surface generate chemical propulsion. The work, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, links a long-observed phenomenon to peroxide chemistry and could point to new antimalarial drug strategies and ideas for engineered micro- and nanoscale devices.
New research shows that malaria pushed early human populations away from high-risk areas in sub-Saharan Africa over the past 74,000 years. This fragmentation influenced genetic diversity and population structures. The study highlights disease as a key evolutionary force alongside climate.
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Researchers at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) have issued a warning after detecting a new Anopheles mosquito species in urban areas. This mosquito prefers human-made environments and could heighten malaria risks in cities. Monitoring efforts continue across several counties.
A genetic technology called a gene drive has shown promise in preventing malaria transmission by mosquitoes during lab tests in Tanzania. Researchers modified local mosquitoes to produce antimalarial proteins, demonstrating effective inhibition of parasites from infected children. The findings suggest the approach could work in the field if released.
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Ethiopia is working to provide malaria prevention to over 13 million people in the current budget year. In the past six months, 3.8 million people were screened, with 1.3 million confirmed to have the disease. The number of patients has decreased by 40 to 49 percent compared to last year.