Tue Dec 16 00:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:
Summary:
A new study published in eLife reveals that artemisinin resistance, a growing threat to malaria treatment, is emerging in Africa. Researchers analyzed over 110,000 malaria parasite samples and found concerning levels of artemisinin resistance mutations, particularly in East Africa (Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Eritrea, Sudan, and Ethiopia). These mutations appear to be developing independently and mirror the early stages of artemisinin resistance seen in Southeast Asia years ago. The findings underscore the urgency of improving genetic surveillance, diversifying drug use, and strengthening malaria control efforts in Africa to prevent a widespread crisis. The study also highlighted data gaps due to pandemic-related disruptions and variations in testing methods. Experts urge coordinated action to avoid a repeat of the chloroquine resistance crisis, emphasizing that proactive measures are crucial to preserve the effectiveness of artemisinin-based therapies.
News Article:
Artemisinin-Resistant Malaria Emerges in Africa: Echoes of Southeast Asia’s Past
December 16, 2025 (The Hindu e-Paper) – A new study published in eLife is sounding the alarm about the rising threat of artemisinin-resistant malaria in Africa. Researchers have uncovered evidence of the parasite developing resistance to artemisinin, a cornerstone of modern malaria treatment, in several East African countries.
The study analyzed over 110,000 malaria parasite samples from 73 countries over 43 years, identifying a significant concentration of kelch13 mutations, linked to artemisinin resistance, in Southeast Asia. More alarmingly, the study found these mutations are emerging independently in countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Eritrea, Sudan, and Ethiopia, mirroring the early stages of resistance observed in Southeast Asia 10-15 years ago.
“The independent emergence of these resistance markers in Africa is deeply concerning,” said lead researcher, cited in the eLife article. “It suggests the parasite is adapting to the drug, potentially rendering it ineffective over time.”
Artemisinin, derived from traditional Chinese medicine, revolutionized malaria treatment in the late 20th century. However, overuse and other factors have driven the development of resistance, as previously seen with chloroquine.
Experts are calling for urgent, coordinated action to prevent a widespread crisis. This includes intensified genetic surveillance, diversification of drug treatments, and strengthened malaria control efforts, with increased funding.
“We must learn from the past,” stated Arun Panchapakesan, assistant professor at the Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education, in an accompanying commentary. “Complacency allowed chloroquine resistance to spread. We cannot afford to make the same mistake with artemisinin.”
The researchers also noted significant data gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and variations in testing methodologies, emphasizing the need for improved data collection and standardization.
The study serves as a stark reminder that constant vigilance and proactive interventions are crucial to combating drug-resistant malaria and safeguarding global health.
First Piper 