TP53 gene variant in people of African descent linked to iron overload, may improve malaria response

(The Wistar Institute) In a study by Wistar and collaborators, a rare, African-specific variant of the TP53 gene called P47S causes iron accumulation in macrophages and other cell types and is associated with poorer response to bacterial infections, along with markers of iron overload in African Americans. Macrophage iron accumulation disrupts their function, resulting in more severe bacterial infections.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-01/twi-tgv012320.php

Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - January 24, 2020 Category: Biology Source Type: news