Cavan Bennett

Abstract Iron deficiency, anemia, and Plasmodium infection are global health challenges with overlapping geographical distributions, particularly affecting pregnant women in Africa, yet the mechanisms underlying their interactions remain poorly understood. We used a multilayered approach combining clinical data from Malawian pregnant women (n = 711) in the REVAMP trial, a genetic mouse model [Tmprss6-knockout (KO)], and in vitro Plasmodium falciparum cultures to clarify iron-malaria associations.

Abstract Anemia is highly prevalent globally, especially in young children in low-income countries, where it often overlaps with a high burden of diarrheal disease. Distribution of iron interventions (as supplements or iron-containing multiple micronutrient powders, MNPs) is a key anemia reduction strategy. Small studies in Africa indicate iron may reprofile the gut microbiome towards pathogenic species.

Abstract Antibiotics may alter the gut microbiome, and this is one of the mechanisms by which antimicrobial resistance may be promoted. Suboptimal antimicrobial stewardship in Asia has been linked to antimicrobial resistance. We aim to examine the relationship between oral antibiotic use and composition and antimicrobial resistance in the gut microbiome in 1093 Bangladeshi infants.