The large diverse gene family var encodes proteins involved in cytoadherence and antigenic variation of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes
Article Abstract:
The var gene family of Plasmodium falciparum codes for the PfEMP1 proteins, which are responsible for antigenic variation and the adherence of erythrocytes infected by Plasmodium falciparum to the endothelium. There are 50 to 150 var genes on multiple chromosomes. The gene product is a 200 to 350 kDa protein that has a membrane anchor, a transmembrane sequence and an extracellular domain that is similar to that of other cell-cell adhesion proteins such as the cadherins.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 1995
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Plasmodium biology: genomic gleanings
Article Abstract:
This review discusses the unusual features of Plasmodium genome as exhibited by the highly A+T rich rodent malarial parasites. The genome is characterized by displaying large amount of low complexity inserts in their protein globular domains, differences in its transcription machinery, its DNA repair system with vulnerability for mutations, and "animal-like" adhesion molecules on the cell surface.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 2003
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Switches in expression of Plasmodium falciparum var genes correlate with changes in antigenic and cytoadherent phenotypes of infected erythrocytes
Article Abstract:
The expression of variant antigens on the surface of erythrocytes infected with Plasmodium falciparum correlates with the expression of var genes. The var genes code for Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1). The malarial parasite inserts this protein into the erythrocyte membrane so it can evade the immune system and attach to the endothelium of blood vessels.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 1995
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