Revealing the Sequence and Resulting Cellular Morphology of Receptor-Ligand Interactions during Plasmodium falciparum Invasion of Erythrocytes
Fig 6
A new model for merozoite invasion.
A diagram of an invading merozoite showing the order and function of the major receptor-ligand interactions studied here. Below this scheme are shown selected molecular interactions critical for invasion. This model incorporates for the first time a sequential hierarchy of distinct receptor-ligand steps during pre-invasion. We show the relationship of these interactions to erythrocyte deformation, which precedes normal successful invasion. Our data implies that rhoptry release is dependent on the interaction between PfRh5 and basigin, resulting in an opening in the erythrocyte membrane, and that external calcium is also important at this stage of invasion.