Gal-9 levels in the blood plasma of malaria patients were markedly higher in cases of severe malaria compared to uncomplicated cases, potentially serving as a biomarker for disease severity. Additionally, in both severe and uncomplicated malaria, Gal-9 levels were associated with various pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including TNF, IL-6, IFN-α2, IFN-γ, IL-1Ra, and IL-10. The gene discussed is IFNA2; the disease is malaria.