Inhibitory effect of β°-thalassaemia/haemoglobin E erythrocytes on Plasmodium falciparum growth in vitro

Abstract

The growth of Plasmodium falciparum in erythrocytes from individuals with β°-thalassaemia or haemoglobin (Hb) E, or both, was assessed in vitro. A significant inhibitory effect on the growth of the parasite was found only with erythrocytes from individuals doubly heterozygous for β°-thalassaemia and HbE. The inhibitory effect was particularly marked with erythrocytes from splenectomized β°-thalassaemia/HbE patients. The protective effect was related to HbF, Hb levels and shape abnormalities of the variant erythrocytes.