Regulation Of Actin Polymerization During Malaria Parasite Invasion Of The Human Erythrocyte
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,147.00
Summary
Malaria parasites depend on successful invasion of red blood cells for their survival. Invasion is powered by a molecular motor based on two key proteins: actin and myosin. Non-specific drugs that inhibit parasite actin block invasion, demonstrating how important its regulation is to parasite success. This project will study several newly identified malaria actin-regulators, aiming to identify new drug targets that will block malaria actin function, stop motility and as such prevent disease.
Investigating Cytoskeletal Dynamics Across The Lifecycle Of The Malaria Parasite
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,741.00
Summary
During its lifecycle the malaria parasite must cross tissues and invade cells in two very different hosts - humans and mosquitos. Although the molecules that drive this process are known, we know nothing about their dynamics in live parasites. Here, we will use state-of-the art microscopy and genetics to dissect parasite motility, tracking proteins in the parasite cell on their journey from human host through to the mosquito - utilising the first Australian malaria-dedicated insectary.