Exploring the intricacies of malaria: Unveiling the biological nature of a persistent menace

Abstract

Malaria, a disease caused by the Apicomplexan parasite, stands as one of the foremost contributors to global mortality rates. As outlined in the 2018 world malaria report by the World Health Organization (WHO), there were a staggering 228 million documented cases of malaria, resulting in an unfortunate 405,000 deaths worldwide. This ancient ailment continues to pose a significant threat to public health across numerous nations. Among the six Plasmodium species responsible for human malaria, Plasmodium falciparum reigns supreme in East and Southern Africa. The primary culprits behind the transmission of malaria are the Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus mosquitoes, acclaimed as the most efficient malaria vectors on the planet. In the ongoing battle against malaria, antimalarial drugs serve as indispensable tools for control and eradication efforts. The recent decline in global malaria burdens can be attributed, in large part, to the widespread utilization of artemisinin-based combination therapies. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that antimalarial drugs employed for the treatment of malaria caused by species other than Plasmodium falciparum may also induce adverse effects. Consequently, this comprehensive analysis aims to discern the various molecules employed in the treatment of these forms of malaria and elucidate the adverse effects they impose on human health. The malaria parasite boasts a complex life cycle, encompassing both mosquito and human hosts. The diagnosis of malaria typically falls under the categories of clinical and parasitological diagnoses. Over time, a range of diagnostic techniques have been embraced, including rapid diagnostic testing (RDT), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It is worth noting that PCR, although highly sensitive and specific, is not routinely employed due to the exorbitant costs associated with equipment and reagents, as well as the need for highly skilled personnel. Conversely, LAMP has emerged as a relatively novel molecular diagnostic tool for malaria, offering all the advantages of PCR without the aforementioned drawbacks.