Plasmodium cynomolgi: What Should We Know?

Abstract

Even though malaria has markedly reduced its global burden, it remains a serious threat to people living in or visiting malaria-endemic areas. The six Plasmodium species (Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale curtisi, Plasmodium ovale wallikeri and Plasmodium knowlesi) are known to associate with human malaria by the Anopheles mosquito. Highlighting the dynamic nature of malaria transmission, the simian malaria parasite Plasmodium cynomolgi has recently been transferred to humans. The first human natural infection case of P. cynomolgi was confirmed in 2011, and the number of cases is gradually increasing. It is assumed that it was probably misdiagnosed as P. vivax in the past due to its similar morphological features and genome sequences. Comprehensive perspectives that encompass the relationships within the natural environment, including parasites, vectors, humans, and reservoir hosts (macaques), are required to understand this zoonotic malaria and prevent potential unknown risks to human health.

Keywords: P. cynomolgi; malaria; zoonosis.

Figure 1

The morphology of P. cynomolgi K4 line is shown in each development stage cultured in 100% of rhesus macaque RBCs (Fauzi Muh et al., original unpublished data). Scale bar indicates 5 µm.

Figure 2

The geographical distribution of natural hosts and vectors of P. cynomolgi.