Nucleic Acid Synthesis (Plasmodium)

Nucleic acid synthesis in *Plasmodium* refers to the processes by which the malaria parasite synthesizes DNA and RNA, essential for its replication and survival during its complex life cycle. This process is a critical target for antimalarial drug development because it is indispensable for parasite proliferation within human red blood cells. The parasite relies on both purine salvage pathways and de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis for nucleic acid production. Key enzymes involved include DNA polymerases, primase, helicase, and exonucleases. The apicoplast organelle contains unique machinery that is essential for organellar genome maintenance, making it an attractive drug target.

Other names

DNA synthesis (Plasmodium)RNA synthesis (Plasmodium)Plasmodium Nucleic Acid Metabolism

Inhibition of nucleotide biosynthesis, inhibition of polymerases, inhibition of exonucleases