Malaria may weaken bones
 

http://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/t...6&q=60&o=f&l=fMalaria parasites leave a trail of destruction in an infected person?s body. The microscopic invaders massacre red blood cells, produce harmful chemicals, and sometimes damage the brain. Now, a new mouse study suggests that the parasites can also weaken bones. If they do the same in people, they could stunt the growth of children infected with the disease. Malaria parasites are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. According to Science Magazine, they cause the most destruction during the part of their life cycle when they dwell in red blood cells circulating through the body. There, they reproduce and feast on oxygen-carrying hemoglobin proteins, releasing noxious byproducts. The parasites eventually explode from the blood cells, killing them in droves. Still, researchers don?t yet have direct evidence that malaria triggers bone loss in people. Children in malaria-prone areas often grow abnormally slowly, but researchers aren?t sure whether malaria or other diseases that are prevalent in these areas are to blame.

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