The Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Malaria Immunity during Adulthood, Childhood and Pregnancy: A Review

Malaria is most prevalent parasitic disease, it caused by coccidian parasite of the genus plasmodium, four species are usually infect human beings, P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malriae and P. ovale, Most of malaria cases resulted from P. falciparum and P. vivax. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is an environmental sensor exists in many parts of human body such as lung, spleen, gut and breast. In this review we discussed the functions of it as regulator for proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, the possible role of diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding in boosting immunity against malaria during pregnancy and childhood by triggering AHR. Also we hypothesize that probable role of it in synchronizing erythrocytic schizogongy. Experimental studies recommended to know more about the biological protective functions of AHR.