Target intelligence / Profile preview

VAR2CSA protein

Molecular classification: Membrane-associated protein, Duffy Binding-Like (DBL) domain-containing protein, Adhesion protein

Overview

VAR2CSA is a large, membrane-associated protein expressed by the malaria parasite *Plasmodium falciparum*. It plays a central role in pregnancy-associated malaria (PAM) by mediating the sequestration of infected erythrocytes in the placenta through specific binding to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). It is also being explored as a potential anti-cancer target.

Mechanism of action

Adhesion blockade; targeted delivery of cytotoxic agents

Biological functions

Cell adhesionPlacental sequestration of infected erythrocytesChondroitin sulfate A (CSA) binding

Disease associations

Pregnancy-associated malaria (PAM)Cancer (certain types, e.g., breast cancer - targeting)

Safety considerations

Antigenic polymorphism limiting cross-strain efficacy of vaccines

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