Decoding the multifaceted role of erythrocyte PMCA4b in oxidative stress-mediated malaria protection and artemisinin resistance.

ABSTRACT: The ATP2B4 gene, encoding the PMCA4b Ca²⁺-ATPase in erythrocytes, has been linked to malaria protection via genome-wide association studies, though the proposed dehydration mechanism remains unclear. This study evaluates ATP2B4 genotypes and PMCA4b expression in malaria susceptibility and artemisinin sensitivity. ATP2B4 genotypes were compared across severe malaria, uncomplicated malaria, and healthy controls in Indian population. PMCA4b expression, intra-erythrocytic calcium, oxidative stress markers, Gardos channel activity, and Plasmodium falciparum growth dynamics were analyzed. Artemisinin sensitivity was assessed using growth inhibition and ring survival assays. ATP2B4 genotypes showed no significant association with malaria protection. Regardless of genotype, low P

SUBMITTER: Agrohi P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12802218 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature