Differential association of KIR gene loci to risk of malaria in ethnic groups of Assam, Northeast India

► KIR3DL1 frequency was positively associated with malaria severity. ► KIR3DS1 frequency in TT was low and comparable to African populations. ► TT had higher proportion of complicated malaria and KIR3DL1+/3DS1- genotype. ► Number of activating genes was linked to protection as well as to risk of malaria. ► KIR gene loci differentially influenced malaria outcome in TT and TB.