The Molecular Epidemiology of Malaria in Western Kenya

Abstract

Malaria epidemiology reflects a complex web of inter-related factors: host, parasite, vector and environment. The nature, duration and severity of malaria infection depend upon these fixed and changing factors, and are complicated by varying levels of acquired immunity in individuals. The present research used molecular biology tools to examine three distinct topics related to malaria epidemiology: 1) the distribution of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma,IL-6, TGF-beta, and IL-10 gene polymorphisms; 2) the rate and pattern of mixed Plasmodium species infections; and 3) Plasmodium falciparum growth dynamics. The first two research topics were examined in a cohort of 248 males recruited from three highly endemic villages in western Kenya where severe malaria anemia is common. The third topic was investigated among 22 volunteers during the post-challenge phase of a malaria vaccine trial sponsored by Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 2002
Accession Number
AD1012460

Entities

People

  • Joseph J. Amon

Organizations

  • Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Biological Factors
  • Blood Cells
  • Blood Groups
  • Cells
  • Chemistry
  • Coinfection
  • Epidemiology
  • Erythrocytes
  • Genetic Variation
  • Genetics
  • Immune System
  • Liquid Chromatography
  • Malaria
  • Peptides
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Proteins
  • Thermal Cyclers

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Medicine

Readers

  • Oncology (Cancer Research).
  • Parasitology and Pharmacology of Malaria.
  • Virology (or Medical Virology).

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology