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Toxicological Assays for Testing Effects of an Epigenetic Drug on Development, Fecundity and Survivorship of Malaria Mosquitoes
Published on: January 16, 2015
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Microwaves can kill malaria parasites non-thermally
Lorena M Coronado1,2,3, José A Stoute4, Christopher T Nadovich5,6
1Biomedical Physics and Engineering Unit, Center of Cellular and Molecular Biology of Diseases (CBCMe), Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panama City, Panama.
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
|February 23, 2023
Summary
Microwave energy non-thermally kills over 90% of malaria parasites via programmed cell death. This novel approach targets the parasite
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Malaria remains a significant global health threat, with over 240 million cases and 600,000 deaths in 2021.
- Rising parasite resistance and suboptimal vaccines necessitate novel antimalarial strategies.
- Previous research suggests electromagnetic energy affects malaria parasites, but mechanisms remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism by which microwave (MW) energy impacts *Plasmodium falciparum* parasites.
- To determine if MW energy can be used as a non-thermal therapeutic approach against malaria.
Main Methods:
- Development of custom applicators for *in vitro* experimentation with *P. falciparum*.
- Exposure of parasites to specific microwave energy conditions.
- Analysis using transmission electron microscopy, calcium signaling assays, and assessment of calcium channel blockers.
Main Results:
- Microwave energy eradicated over 90% of *P. falciparum* parasites through programmed cell death, independent of thermal effects.
- The food vacuole, containing haemozoin, was identified as a key organelle affected by MW exposure.
- Calcium signaling pathways were implicated, with calcium channel blockers protecting parasites from MW-induced death.
Conclusions:
- Microwave energy offers a non-thermal, targeted mechanism to induce programmed cell death in malaria parasites.
- The findings elucidate molecular interactions between electromagnetic fields and *P. falciparum*, highlighting the role of calcium signaling.
- This research presents a potential alternative technology for malaria control, distinct from conventional treatments.
Keywords:
Plasmodium falciparumRadio frequencies (RF)calcium signalingelectromagnetic fieldselectromagnetismmalariamicrowaves (MW)therapeuticMore Related Videos
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