Molecular Classification
Surface protein, GPI-anchored protein
Disease Roles
Circumsporozoite Protein Overview
The circumsporozoite protein (CSP) is the major surface protein of the sporozoite stage of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for the most severe form of human malaria. CSP is essential for sporozoite development, motility, and invasion of host hepatocytes. It is also a key antigenic target in malaria vaccine development, notably forming the basis for vaccines such as RTS,S.
Mechanism of Action
Antibodies targeting CSP neutralize sporozoites, preventing liver cell invasion
Biological Functions
Sporozoite motility
Sporozoite development
Hepatocyte binding
Hepatocyte invasion
Disease Associations
Malaria
Infection
Safety Considerations
No safety concerns listed
Interacting Drugs
RTS,S/AS01 (vaccine)