Duffy-null promoter heterozygosity reduces DARC expression and abrogates adhesion of the P-vivax ligand required for blood-stage infection

The Duffy blood group antigen is an essential receptor for Plasmodium, viva x entry into erythrocytes in a process mediated by the parasite ligand, the Duffy binding protein (DBP), Recently, individuals living in a malaria end emic region of Papua New Guinea were identified as heterozygous for a new a llele conferring Duffy negativity, which results in 50% less Duffy antigen on their erythrocytes, We demonstrate that DBP adherence to Erythrocytes is significantly reduced for erythrocytes from heterozygous individuals,who c arry one Duffy antigen negativity allele. These data provide evidence that emergence of this new allelic form of Duffy negativity is correlated with r esistance against,was malaria. (C) 2001 Federation of European Biochemical Societies, Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.