The interdependence of isoprenoid synthesis and apicoplast biogenesis in malaria parasites.
Isoprenoid precursor synthesis is an ancient and fundamental function of plastid organelles and a critical metabolic activity of the apicoplast in Plasmodium malaria parasites [1-3]. Over the past decade, our understanding of apicoplast properties and functions has increased enormously [4], due in l...
Main Authors: | , |
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Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Published: |
Public Library of Science (PLoS)
2023-10-01
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Series: | PLoS Pathogens |
Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1011713 |
Summary: | Isoprenoid precursor synthesis is an ancient and fundamental function of plastid organelles and a critical metabolic activity of the apicoplast in Plasmodium malaria parasites [1-3]. Over the past decade, our understanding of apicoplast properties and functions has increased enormously [4], due in large part to our ability to rescue blood-stage parasites from apicoplast-specific dysfunctions by supplementing cultures with isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), a key output of this organelle [5,6]. In this Pearl, we explore the interdependence between isoprenoid metabolism and apicoplast biogenesis in P. falciparum and highlight critical future questions to answer. |
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ISSN: | 1553-7366 1553-7374 |