Negative Epistasis between Sickle and Foetal Haemoglobin Suggests a Reduction in Protection against Malaria.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Haemoglobin variants, Sickle (HbS) and foetal (HbF) have been associated with malaria protection. This study explores epistatic interactions between HbS and HbF on malaria infection.

Methods

The study was conducted between March 2004 and December 2013 within the sickle cell disease (SCD) programme at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania. SCD status was categorized into HbAA, HbAS and HbSS using hemoglobin electrophoresis and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). HbF levels were determined by HPLC. Malaria was diagnosed using rapid diagnostic test and/or blood film. Logistic regression and generalized estimating equations models were used to evaluate associations between SCD status, HbF and malaria.

Findings

2,049 individuals with age range 0-70 ye

SUBMITTER: Mmbando BP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4428884 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature