Rapidly Spreading Genetic Change Undermines Key Malaria Treatment

Researchers analyzing malaria parasites from Uganda identified a cluster of mutations in a gene called px1 that is linked to reduced sensitivity to a primary antimalarial drug. The mutation cluster, named PIN, first appeared in 2008 and spread rapidly, being present in half of northern Uganda samples by 2016. The findings suggest the parasite is evolving to resist treatment, raising concerns about increased deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.