Resistance:
The rate at which P. falciparum becomes resistant
is still a very controversial subject, with many studies constantly
being carried out. However, it seems resistance follows a
normal Medelian pattern (Talisuna).
Previous drugs used to treat Malaria include quinolines,
one of which is chloroquine. Simply, these drugs worked by
inhibiting the digestive vacuole of the parasite. Since quinolines were
initial employed, P. falciparum has adapted to counteract the
drugs negative affects (Francis).
A specific gene has been determined to be connected to chloriquine
resistance. The rate at which the resistance spreads in areas of high
and low Malaria frequency is often disputed. One such study determined
that areas of low transmission most likely incurred higher numbers of
resistance due to increased use of drugs for treatment (Talisuna).
The large number of enzymes and proteins, along with the
complex life cycle of the parasite,
offers many options for adaptations to vaccines.
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