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Seminar presentation on “Immunologic and genomic variations among malaria resistant populations in two endemic communities of Nigeria “organized by Department of Medical Laboratory Science, presented by Dr AA Abubakar

According to Dr. Abubakar, the research was conducted in four stages namely: use of a questionnaire, use of serology by MSP-1 antigen, Malaria parasite microscopy, determination of the level of antibody and assessment of FC Gamma 2 receptor in the sample of the subjects. At the end of the methodology, the following findings were reported:

Nigeria is a malaria-endemic region, yet this present study shows that 5.2% of the population are not easily infected by the parasite for as long as nine months or more without any prophylaxis or curative drugs.

The presenter reported further that while there is an association between low anti-MSP-1 antibodies and decreased risk of clinical malaria, Homozygous allele R131 of Fc Gamma receptor IIa appears to confer higher protection on malaria resistant individuals than heterozygote allele R131H and Homozygous allele H131.

Also, the highest frequency of resistant sera with low titre (titre 2- 4) were documented within the age bracket 16-25 years where 46 out of overall 63 cases of malaria resistant cases were recorded.

The researcher, therefore, suggested that sera from malaria resistant subjects in endemic areas can be explored for anti-malaria agents and possible development of protective malaria candidate vaccine.

The researcher concluded by highlighting the next line of action after the current findings which include the following:

Preparation of samples from subjects resistant to malaria for detection of other genes such as Duffy, alpha and beta-globin to truly confirm their immunity against malaria.

Preparation of Samples whole genome sequencing/next-generation sequencing at National Human Genome Research Institute in the USA for complete computational analysis of the genes associated with immunity against malaria.

Assessment of the protective effect of blood samples from malaria resistant human subjects in-vitro (using malaria culture medium) is also being proposed. 

Assessment of association between physical exercise and resistant against malaria infection

He concluded by inviting researchers across faculties in the University of Medical Sciences for the final stage of the study.

University of Medical Sciences

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