Mutant PfCRT Can Mediate Piperaquine Resistance in African <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> With Reduced Fitness and Increased Susceptibility to Other Antimalarials

Abstract

A single PfCRT mutation can mediate PPQ resistance in GB4 parasites, but with a growth defect that may preclude its spread without further genetic adaptations. Our findings support regional use of drug combinations that exert opposing selective pressures on PfCRT.