A sub-microscopic gametocyte reservoir can sustain malaria transmission.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Novel diagnostic tools, including PCR and high field gradient magnetic fractionation (HFGMF), have improved detection of asexual Plasmodium falciparum parasites and especially infectious gametocytes in human blood. These techniques indicate a significant number of people carry gametocyte densities that fall below the conventional threshold of detection achieved by standard light microscopy (LM).

Methodology/principal findings

To determine how low-level gametocytemia may affect transmission in present large-scale efforts for P. falciparum control in endemic areas, we developed a refinement of the classical Ross-Macdonald model of malaria transmission by introducing multiple infective compartments to model the potential impact of highly prevalent, low gametocytaemic

SUBMITTER: Karl S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3114851 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature