Plasmodium falciparum glycophorin-binding protein 130 (PfGBP130)

Plasmodium falciparum glycophorin-binding protein 130 (PfGBP130) is an exported protein produced by the malaria parasite during its asexual blood stage. It was one of the first parasite proteins identified to interact with glycophorins on the surface of human erythrocytes, suggesting a role in the complex process of red blood cell invasion (Ravetch et al., 1985, Nature). PfGBP130 is localized to the host cell cytoplasm and the parasitophorous vacuole, and it contains characteristic 50-amino acid tandem repeats that are thought to mediate protein-protein interactions or immune distraction. While its exact essentiality for parasite survival has been debated, it remains a significant marker of the parasite's machinery for remodeling the host environment and facilitating infection (Maier et al., 2008, Cell). As a surface-associated or exported antigen, it has been investigated as a potential vaccine candidate, although its high degree of sequence variation poses challenges for therapeutic targeting. Understanding PfGBP130 is critical for dissecting the molecular interface between Plasmodium falciparum and the human host.

Other names

GBP130Glycophorin-binding protein 130GBP-130PF3D7_1016300

Inhibition of erythrocyte binding or disruption of protein export pathways to prevent parasite invasion and survival.