Cellular and molecular interactions underlying the peripheral immune responses to blood-stage malaria infections

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium species, is one of the most widespread illnesses globally, affecting millions of individuals each year. The complex life cycle of these parasites requires a multifaceted approach from the human immune system to respond to infection. Additionally, Plasmodium parasites have coevolved in primates and developed numerous immune evasion mechanisms to escape human immune defenses. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of the human immune responses to blood-stage malaria, as well as the parasite immune evasion mechanisms during this part of the life cycle.