Release date: 2009-02-20
According to a BBC report published on February 8th, Canadian researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the chemical signatures of two of the deadliest forms of malaria—placental and cerebral malaria. This discovery could significantly reduce the number of deaths caused by these diseases, which claim thousands of lives each year, especially among children. Cerebral malaria alone is responsible for about 40% of malaria-related fatalities.
The research team from Canada has identified unique chemical markers associated with these two types of malaria, enabling earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment options. Placental malaria occurs when a pregnant woman is infected, and it can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. Infants born to affected mothers often suffer from growth restrictions and low birth weight, while the mothers may develop anemia or even die.
Scientists at the McCollin-Rotman Global Health Center in Toronto discovered that women with placental malaria have elevated levels of a protein called C5a in their blood. This protein triggers an overactive immune response, leading to inflammation in the placenta, impaired blood vessel development, and potential malnutrition in the mother. Dr. Kevin Kain, who led the study, emphasized that detecting this protein early during pregnancy could allow for timely treatment, reducing the risk of severe outcomes.
In addition to C5a, the researchers also identified other proteins involved in vascular control, which could help detect cerebral malaria. These findings could assist doctors in prioritizing treatment for severely ill children. While some experts, like Dr. Delmiro Fernandez Reyes from the National Institute of Medical Research in London, acknowledge the importance of the study, they also note that more research is needed to fully translate these findings into clinical applications. He pointed out that while the chemical characteristics are promising, they may not be sufficient on their own to diagnose malaria, as the disease can progress rapidly. However, the research offers valuable insights for developing new malaria treatments.
Meanwhile, the prestigious medical journal *The Lancet* reported on a new approach to treating children with severe malaria. Traditional treatments often involve oral medication, but sick children may be too weak to take pills. Researchers at the University of Oxford’s Tropical Medicine Centre found that a simple, alternative treatment can be highly effective. This method has allowed patients in remote areas to receive life-saving care without having to travel long distances, resulting in a significant drop in mortality rates. ——Midi Medical Network
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