Plasmodium vivax circumsporozoite protein N-terminal region (PvCSP-N)

The Plasmodium vivax circumsporozoite protein (PvCSP) is the most abundant surface protein on the sporozoite stage of the P. vivax parasite, which is responsible for a significant burden of malaria worldwide. The N-terminal region of this protein is functionally vital, containing a highly conserved sequence known as Region I that facilitates the binding of the parasite to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the surface of human hepatocytes. This binding, followed by the proteolytic cleavage of the N-terminus, is a prerequisite for the parasite to transition from a migratory state to an invasive state within the liver. Because this region is essential for the establishment of infection and the formation of dormant hypnozoites, it is a primary focus for pre-erythrocytic vaccine development and monoclonal antibody therapy. Vaccines targeting the N-terminal region aim to elicit an immune response that neutralizes sporozoites before they can infect liver cells, thereby preventing both the clinical symptoms of malaria and the potential for future relapses.

Other names

PvCSP N-terminusRegion I of Plasmodium vivax circumsporozoite proteinN-terminal domain of PvCSPPvCSP-N

Inhibition of sporozoite invasion into hepatocytes by blocking binding sites or preventing proteolytic cleavage required for entry; induction of neutralizing antibodies and T-cell responses.