Plasmodium falciparum liver-stage associated protein 2 (LSAP2)

Plasmodium falciparum liver-stage associated protein 2 (LSAP2, PfLSAP2) is a parasite-derived protein expressed specifically during the liver stage of the malaria parasite’s life cycle. It is exported by the parasite into the cytoplasm of infected hepatocytes, where it is required for successful schizont maturation and the production of infectious merozoites that initiate blood-stage malaria. Immunological studies have demonstrated LSAP2 induces a strong CD8+ T cell response and that vaccines encoding LSAP2 can confer sterile protection in animal models. The molecule is a prominent antigenic candidate for pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccines. Expression of LSAP2 is used as a molecular marker of liver-stage development, allowing distinction between dormant and replicating parasite forms. There are no approved drugs specifically targeting LSAP2, though it is a focus for vaccine development and experimental drug studies targeting the liver stage. LSAP2 is distinct from LSA1 (liver-stage antigen 1), another important liver-stage target, and both are under investigation for inclusion in multi-antigen vaccine constructs.

Other names

LSAP2Liver-stage associated protein 2PfLSAP2Sometimes referred to as a liver-stage antigen

Vaccine-induced cellular immunity (antigen-specific CD8+ T cell response against infected hepatocytes expressing LSAP2) Possible immune response markers for anti-relapse and pre-erythrocytic stage malaria protection