Invasion of red blood cells by malaria parasites.
The malaria parasite is the most important member of the Apicomplexa, a large and highly successful phylum of intracellular parasites. Invasion of host cells allows apicomplexan parasites access to a rich source of nutrients in a niche that is largely protected from host defenses. All Apicomplexa adopt a common mode of host-cell entry, but individual species incorporate unique features and utilize a specific set of ligand-receptor interactions. These adhesins ultimately connect to a parasite actin-based motor, which provides the power for invasion. While some Apicomplexa can invade many different host cells, the disease-associated blood-stage form of the malaria parasite is restricted to erythrocytes.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne 3050, Australia. cowman@wehi.edu.au
Alan F
AF
Cowman
Brendan S
BS
Crabb
D000818:Animals; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000469:parasitology*; D005544:Forecasting; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions; D006801:Humans; D008288:Malaria / Q000097:blood / Q000469:parasitology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D020409:Molecular Motor Proteins; D010963:Plasmodium falciparum / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D015800:Protozoan Proteins / Q000378:metabolism
D020409:Molecular Motor Proteins; D015800:Protozoan Proteins