Antibody and P. falciparum Parasites Profiles during Clinical Malaria Episodes Following Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy in Burkina Faso

Background: Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTS) are the first recommended drug for uncomplicated malaria treatment in many endemic countries. They are responsible for rapid parasites clearance and in reducing fever. Artemisinin has been found to have an immunosuppressive effect in animal’s models. In the present study, we assessed the effect of ACTs on malaria antigens specific antibodies production during subsequent malaria episodes in a population living in malaria hyperendemic area. Methods: In 2012, 371 patients with, presenting uncomplicated clinical malaria aged over 6 months and adults were recruited and allocated to receive ACTs and follow up for 2 years. Antibodies titers against three P. falciparum blood stage malaria vaccine candidates (MSP3, GLURP R0, and GLURP R2) were measured by ELISA during subsequent malaria episodes. Results: Antibody concentration increased during subsequent malaria episodes for GLURP R0, and this was statistically significant. IgG to all tested antigens increased with age and this trend was maintained over all episodes. Conclusion: Asexual P. falciparum densities were showing different trends and immune responses against certain erythrocytic antigens were boosted during subsequent malaria episodes.