Association of alpha globin gene copy number with exhaled nitric oxide in a cross-sectional study of healthy Black adults.

Introduction: The genetic determinants of fractional exhalation of nitric oxide (FeNO), a marker of lung inflammation, are understudied in Black individuals. Alpha globin () restricts nitric oxide signalling in arterial endothelial cells via interactions with nitric oxide synthase; however, its role in regulating the release of NO from respiratory epithelium is less well understood. We hypothesised that an gene deletion, common among Black individuals, would be associated with higher FeNO.

Vascular Dysfunction in Malaria: Understanding the Role of the Endothelial Glycocalyx.

Malaria caused by results in over 400,000 deaths annually, predominantly affecting African children. In addition, non-falciparum species including vivax and knowlesi cause significant morbidity and mortality. Vascular dysfunction is a key feature in malaria pathogenesis leading to impaired blood perfusion, vascular obstruction, and tissue hypoxia.