Plasmodium vivax surface protein 25 (Pvs25) (Pvs25)

Pvs25 is a 25 kDa surface protein expressed during the sexual stages of the Plasmodium vivax parasite, specifically on the surface of ookinetes and oocysts within the mosquito midgut (UniProt: Q8I6R7). It belongs to a family of cysteine-rich proteins characterized by four epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains (PubMed: 11050244). The primary biological function of Pvs25 is to facilitate the development and survival of the parasite as it transitions from an ookinete to an oocyst after being ingested by an Anopheles mosquito (PubMed: 26434775). As a leading candidate for a transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV), Pvs25 is not intended to prevent infection in the vaccinated individual but rather to induce antibodies that, when ingested by a mosquito during a blood meal, inhibit the parasite's life cycle within the vector (PubMed: 18299648). This strategy aims to reduce the overall transmission of malaria within a population. Clinical trials have evaluated various formulations of Pvs25, including recombinant proteins and virus-like particles, often paired with potent adjuvants to enhance immunogenicity (PubMed: 23433345). Challenges in its development include ensuring sustained high antibody titers and managing potential reactogenicity associated with certain vaccine platforms (PubMed: 18299648).

Other names

P2525 kDa ookinete surface proteinPvs25 antigenP. vivax 25 kDa ookinete surface protein

Transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) antigen that induces host antibodies to inhibit parasite development in the mosquito vector.