Mei2-like RNA-binding protein (PlasMei2)

Mei2-like RNA-binding protein (PlasMei2) is a master regulator of the liver-stage development in Plasmodium parasites, the causative agents of malaria (Dankwa et al., 2016). It is an ortholog of the yeast Mei2 protein and is characterized by the presence of RNA recognition motifs (RRMs) that facilitate post-transcriptional gene regulation (Infect Immun, 2016). PlasMei2 is specifically expressed during the mid-to-late liver stage (schizogony), where it is essential for the maturation of the parasite and the formation of merozoites (Dankwa et al., 2016). Genetic deletion of the mei2 gene results in a complete arrest of the parasite just prior to its release into the bloodstream, making it a key target for the development of genetically attenuated parasite (GAP) vaccines (Nature Medicine, 2025). These vaccines, such as the PfΔmei2 candidate, are designed to provide sterile immunity by allowing the host to mount an immune response against liver-stage antigens without progressing to clinical malaria (PLOS ONE, 2024). While no small molecule inhibitors are currently in clinical use, the target is primarily exploited through genetic attenuation in live-parasite vaccines, which have shown promise in early-stage clinical trials (Nature Medicine, 2025).

Other names

Plasmodium Mei2-like proteinPfMei2PyMei2Meiosis inhibited 2-like proteinPLASMEI2

Genetic deletion of the Mei2-like RNA-binding protein leads to developmental arrest in the late liver stage of the Plasmodium life cycle, preventing the formation of infectious merozoites and the subsequent transition to the symptomatic blood stage (Dankwa et al., 2016).