Plasmodium Membrane Integrity (via Reactive Oxygen Species)

The integrity of the Plasmodium parasite's membrane is a critical factor for its survival and pathogenicity. Disruption of this membrane, particularly through the action of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leads to parasite death. ROS are generated by host immune responses and the parasite’s own metabolism. Plasmodium lacks some key antioxidant enzymes and relies on peroxiredoxins (Prx) for detoxifying hydrogen peroxide. Excessive ROS cause oxidative damage to lipids in the parasite’s plasma membrane as well as organellar membranes, compromising structural integrity and leading to cell lysis or apoptosis-like death pathways. Targeting membrane integrity via induction or potentiation of oxidative stress is an established antimalarial strategy.

Other names

Oxidative stress response in PlasmodiumROS-mediated membrane damage in PlasmodiumLipid peroxidation in PlasmodiumPlasmodium membrane disruption

Induction of oxidative stress leading to lipid peroxidation and membrane disruption.