Aqueous Affairs of Red Blood Cell: Variations That Alter Parasite Growth

Abstract

Volume regulation is an important aspect of red blood cell (RBC) physiology that facilitates efficient transport of oxygen throughout the body. Ion channels are the key player in volume regulation allowing the movement of water and ions across the cell membrane. Dysfunction in ion channel activity can disturb the precise balance of ion transport and volume regulation, leading to the development of various disorders. Hereditary defects in RBC are well-known to provide protection against severe malaria. However, RBC’s volume disorders may also impact on malaria protection which needs thorough investigation. In recent years, PIEZO1 and ATP2B4 genes were discovered to be involved in RBC volume homeostasis. These genes through calcium-activated potassium channel (Gardos channels) regulate RBC volume and may be involved in protection against severe malaria in humans. This chapter is an attempt to cover the dynamic interplay of RBC’s volume regulation and its role in protection against severe malaria. This chapter also aims to provide insight on the complexity of genetic variants of human RBC that may affect malaria pathogenesis.