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Magnesium deficiency affects malaria susceptibility in mice
P Maurois1, E Gueux, Y Rayssiguier
1INSERM U 42 (National Institute Health and Medical Research), Villeneuve d'Ascq, France.
Journal of the American College of Nutrition
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Magnesium deficiency protected mice against malaria infection by reducing parasite levels and improving survival rates. This suggests a potential link between magnesium levels and malaria outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Parasitology
- Immunology
Background:
- Magnesium (Mg) is an essential mineral involved in numerous cellular processes.
- Dietary Mg intake can vary significantly, potentially impacting health outcomes.
- Plasmodium parasites cause malaria, a significant global health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of magnesium deficiency on malaria parasite infection in mice.
- To determine if altered Mg levels influence parasitemia and survival rates.
Main Methods:
- Mice were fed control or magnesium-deficient diets for 12 days.
- Mice were infected with Plasmodium chabaudi, P. vinckei, or P. berghei.
- Parasitemia and survival were monitored for 20 days post-infection.
Main Results:
- Mg deficiency reduced parasitemia and improved survival against P. chabaudi and P. vinckei.
- In P. berghei infections, Mg-deficient mice survived the initial phase, unlike controls.
- The second phase of P. berghei infection in deficient mice was similar to controls, linked to reticulocyte invasion.
Conclusions:
- Dietary magnesium deficiency confers protection against malaria parasite infection in mice.
- The protective effect is associated with decreased erythrocyte Mg and a prooxidative state.
- Mg status may be a factor influencing malaria severity and outcomes.