Gut microbiota influences <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> malaria susceptibility.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The gut microbiota has recently been associated with malaria susceptibility/resistance in animal models and humans. This study aimed to assess its influence on malaria attack and Plasmodium parasitemia in children living in a malaria-endemic area of Mali.

Methods

Healthy children were enrolled in a 16-month cohort study in Bandiagara. Their gut bacteria and fungi community structures were characterized via 16S and ITS metabarcoding at enrolment. Clinicians monitored malaria attacks. Asymptomatic Plasmodium carriage was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Of the 300 children, 107 (36 %) had at least one malaria attack, and 82 (27 %) had at least one episode of asymptomatic Plasmodium parasitemia. The gut bacterial co

SUBMITTER: Kodio A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12032372 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature