PfSUB-2: a second subtilisin-like protein in Plasmodium falciparum merozoites

Mol Biochem Parasitol. 1999 Oct 15;103(2):183-95. doi: 10.1016/s0166-6851(99)00122-x.

Abstract

Erythrocyte invasion by the malaria merozoite requires the activity of merozoite proteases. We have previously identified a Plasmodium falciparum protein belonging to the superfamily of subtilisin-like serine proteases, which is expressed in a subset of secretory organelles in free merozoites. Here we describe the identification of a second P. falciparum subtilisin-like merozoite protein. Called PfSUB-2, it is encoded by a single copy gene and is expressed as a large putative type I integral membrane protein which undergoes extensive post-translational processing. The terminal processing product is expressed in an apical location in merozoites. PfSUB-2 may mediate one or more of the serine protease activities known to be associated with erythrocyte invasion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Cell Compartmentation
  • Cell Polarity
  • Cloning, Molecular
  • DNA, Complementary / genetics
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique
  • Genes, Protozoan
  • Humans
  • Malaria, Falciparum / blood
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Plasmodium falciparum / cytology
  • Plasmodium falciparum / enzymology
  • Plasmodium falciparum / genetics*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational
  • Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
  • Subtilisins / biosynthesis
  • Subtilisins / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA, Complementary
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Subtilisins
  • sub-2 protein, Plasmodium falciparum

Associated data

  • GENBANK/AJ132422