Three models of var gene switching in P. falciparum malaria infections

Introduction: Understanding naturally acquired immunity (NAI) and its relationship to immune evasion strategies in P. falciparum infections is important for malaria control. NAI is assumed to comprise specific antibodies to PfEMP1 proteins expressed on the surface of infected red blood cells. To escape from immune response, parasites switch among PfEMP1 variants. Using a simulation model which considers innate immunity, variant-specific and variant-transcending immunity, we explore different switching mechanisms and their implications for the immune mechanisms. Methods: Three models were implemented: Random swit…