Sporozoite surface protein P52 (PfP52)

Sporozoite surface protein P52 (PfP52) is a member of the 6-Cys (s48/45) protein family in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. It is primarily expressed on the surface of sporozoites, the stage of the parasite transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. P52 functions in a critical complex with the protein P36 to facilitate the formation of the parasitophorous vacuole (PV) within host hepatocytes. Without functional P52, the parasite can invade the liver cell but fails to establish the PV, leading to an immediate arrest in development. This essential role makes P52 a primary target for the development of genetically attenuated parasite (GAP) vaccines, such as the PfSPZ-GA1 candidate. In these vaccines, the p52 gene is deleted to create a live-attenuated parasite that can stimulate a robust immune response without causing disease. Additionally, P52 is a target for research into monoclonal antibodies designed to block the initial infection of the liver.

Other names

Sporozoite surface protein P36pPF52PF36P6-Cys protein P52PF3D7_0404500PFD0215c

Induction of protective T-cell and antibody responses to arrest parasite development in the liver; Inhibition of hepatocyte invasion by blocking protein-receptor interactions.