The Role of Gut Microbiome Diversity in Modulating Malaria Severity among Children Under Five

Bwanbale Geoffrey David

Faculty of Pharmacy Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five in malaria-endemic regions, with severe complications such as cerebral malaria and severe anemia disproportionately affecting this vulnerable population. Emerging evidence highlights the gut microbiome as a critical modulator of immune responses and disease outcomes, including malaria severity. This review synthesized current knowledge on the role of gut microbiome diversity in influencing malaria progression, emphasizing mechanisms such as immune modulation, parasite growth regulation, nutrient metabolism, and barrier function. Studies in human and animal models suggested that a diverse and balanced gut microbiome enhances immune competence, reduces systemic inflammation, and may mitigate severe malaria outcomes. Conversely, dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, is associated with increased disease severity. The review also explored the potential of microbiome-based interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications, to complement existing malaria control strategies. Despite promising findings, challenges such as the highly individualized nature of the gut microbiome, incomplete understanding of underlying mechanisms, and the need for rigorous clinical trials remain. This review was conducted through a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed studies, animal models, and clinical data to evaluate the gut microbiome’s role in malaria severity. Future research priorities include longitudinal and mechanistic studies, intervention trials, and community-engaged approaches to develop targeted, microbiome-informed strategies for malaria prevention and treatment. Harnessing the gut microbiome’s potential could offer innovative solutions to reduce the malaria burden and improve health outcomes in endemic regions, particularly for high-risk populations like children under five.

Keywords: Gut microbiome, Malaria severity, Immune modulation, Microbiome diversity, Probiotics and prebiotics.

CITE AS: Bwanbale Geoffrey David (2025). The Role of Gut Microbiome Diversity in Modulating Malaria Severity among Children Under Five. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY 4(1): 61-65. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJPP/2025/416165