Erythrocyte binding proteins of malaria parasites: potential targets for intervention

Erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium merozoites is mediated by molecular interactions between parasite proteins and host receptors. We describe molecular, genetic, biochemical and structural studies to understand the functional roles played by a family of erythrocyte binding proteins (EBPs) from malaria parasites in the process of red cell invasion. These together with field-based immuno-epidemiology studies have been used to build the rationale for the use of EBPs as malaria vaccine candidates. Parasite proteins such as EBPs that mediate interactions with host receptors are commonly localized in apical organelles. Successful invasion requires timely secretion of these parasite proteins during invasion. We describe here efforts to understand signalling mechanisms that trigger timely secretion of EBPs and other parasite ligands from apical organelles during invasion. Such signalling pathways may provide novel drug targets for inhibition of invasion and parasite growth.