DFG project: Epigenetic control of gene expression in malaria gametocytes

 

Duration: 3 years

Application period: 2014-2017

Doctorate: Dr. Meike Kiesow

Summary:

The transmission of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum from the human to the mosquito represents a major bottleneck in the life-cycle of this parasite and is mediated by sexual precursor cells, the gametocytes. Gametocytes mature in the human red blood cell during a period of approximately 10 days and are then taken up by the blood-feeding Anopheles mosquito. Upon entering the mosquito midgut with the blood meal, gametocytes become activated by various environmental stimuli. Approximately 20% of the plasmodial genes are specifically expressed in the gametocytes, and during activation, a different repertoire of genes is switched on. These activation-induced molecular changes not only initiate gametogenesis, but also prepare the parasites for life-cycle progression in the insect vector. Because gametocytes are the only parasite stages capable of establishing an infection in the mosquito, they play a crucial role in the spread of malaria and represent prime targets for transmission blocking interventions. The project aimed at gaining a better understanding of the critical elements involved in the regulation of gametocyte development in the human host and during transmission to the mosquito vector.The role of epigenetics by analysing histone modifications throughout gametocyte development and activation of the gametocytes was investigated. In parallel, mRNA transcript profiles using DNA microarray analyses were characterized.