Malaria is one of the most parasitic diseases in the world. It is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and spread by the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 228 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2018, and 405 000 deaths from this disease in the same year.

Existing preventive measures for malaria include the use of bed nets, insecticides, and antimalarial drugs.

However, these approaches are not always effective, especially in regions where the parasite and mosquitoes have developed resistance to various treatments.

Recent research shows that gut bacteria can play a crucial role in regulating the immune system and protecting the body against infections.

In particular, some bacterial species have been shown to help prevent malaria by supporting the production of a protein that shields the liver from the Plasmodium parasite.

The Shield Mechanism

The shield mechanism is a natural defense system that protects the liver against the Plasmodium parasite.

This system works by producing a protein called hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which stimulates the production of liver cells and signals the liver to regenerate after an injury.

Studies have shown that some gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species, stimulate the production of HGF and activate the shield mechanism.

These bacteria increase the expression of genes that produce HGF, which promotes liver cell proliferation and repair, and also helps the liver mount a stronger immune response against the Plasmodium parasite.

Gut Bacteria and Malaria Prevention

A growing body of evidence indicates that the diversity and abundance of gut bacterial populations can impact the severity and outcome of malaria infection.

In particular, the presence of certain beneficial bacterial species can help prevent malaria and enhance the immune response to the Plasmodium parasite.

A study published in the journal Cell in 2018 found that a specific strain of Bifidobacterium called B. infantis improved the survival rates of mice infected with Plasmodium.

The researchers also found that this bacteria increased the expression of genes that produce HGF and activated the shield mechanism in the liver.

Another study published in the journal Science in 2013 found that gut bacteria can modulate the immune response to malaria by regulating the levels of a signaling molecule called interleukin-10 (IL-10).

The researchers found that a reduction in IL-10 levels in infected mice led to an increase in disease severity, while an increase in IL-10 levels due to the presence of certain gut bacteria reduced the severity of the infection.

The Future of Malaria Prevention

Given the burden of malaria on public health and the limitations of existing preventive measures, there is a need for new and innovative approaches to combat this disease.

Gut bacteria appear to have promise as a new avenue for malaria prevention, either through direct administration of beneficial bacteria or through dietary interventions that promote their growth and proliferation.

Although the exact mechanism by which gut bacteria prevent malaria is not yet fully understood, it is clear that they play a vital role in regulating the immune system and activating the shield mechanism in the liver.

Further research is required to identify specific bacterial species and mechanisms involved in malaria prevention, and to develop safe and effective interventions for human use.

Conclusion

Gut bacteria have emerged as a new frontier in the fight against malaria.

The shield mechanism, stimulated by certain beneficial bacterial species, can help protect the liver against the Plasmodium parasite and promote a stronger immune response to this deadly disease.

As we continue to explore the complex interactions between gut bacteria and the human body, we have the potential to unlock new treatments and preventives for malaria and other diseases.