The Human Genetics of Malaria

Abstract

Human genetic resistance to malaria is the inherited changes in the human DNA that increase resistance to malaria and lead to increased survival of people with these genetic changes. The evolutionary pressure exerted by the malaria parasite is likely what led to the existence of these genotypes. The impact of host genetics on susceptibility to Plasmodium falciparum malaria has been widely studied over the past twenty years. It is now clear that the malaria Plasmodium parasites have imposed strong selective forces on the human genome in endemic regions. Different genes associated with different malaria-related phenotypes have been identified. Recent developments in human genome research technologies, like genome-wide association studies and genotyping tools, have enabled the discovery of several genetic polymorphisms and biomarkers. This review describes and analyses the human gene polymorphisms that have been revealed to be associated with resistance to P. falciparum malaria. Although some polymorphisms play important roles in susceptibility to malaria, several discoveries are inconclusive and conflicting and should be carefully examined. The discovery of genetic polymorphisms associated with resistance to malaria will enable the development of interventions or cures for the malaria disease.