Infected erythrocytes lyse and release merozoites into the circulation, causing activation of the immune system and leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, interferon-gamma, IL-6, and IL-12.28 This cascade of cytokines leads to symptoms of uncomplicated malaria, including periodic fever, which, if left untreated, can progress to severe disease. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is malaria.