Abstract
BackgroundPlasmodium falciparum immature gametocytes accumulate in the bone marrow, but their exact location in this tissue remains unclear.MethodsThe stage and deposition pattern of gametocytes was analysed on histological sections of a bone marrow sample collected in a patient with subacute P. falciparum malaria.ResultsA majority (89%) of immature stages II to IV gametocytes and a minority (29%) of mature stage V gametocytes were observed in extravascular spaces.Discussion and conclusionThese observations represent a valuable step towards understanding sequestration patterns of P. falciparum gametocytes and may ultimately lead to novel transmission-blocking interventions.
Highlights
Plasmodium falciparum immature gametocytes accumulate in the bone marrow, but their exact location in this tissue remains unclear
The stage and deposition pattern of gametocytes as analysed on histological sections, including the absence of co-localization with CD34-positive vascular structures suggest that immature P. falciparum gametocytes undergo part of their development in the extravascular spaces of the bone marrow
Like mature asexual P. falciparum blood stages, immature gametocytes are absent from large vessels [4]
Summary
Plasmodium falciparum immature gametocytes accumulate in the bone marrow, but their exact location in this tissue remains unclear. Erythrocytes infected with mature asexual stages (mature trophozoites and schizonts) are sequestered in the lumen of small vessels via their adhesion to microvascular endothelial cells [2]. Immature gametocytes are absent from large vessels, but are present in the bone marrow.
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