Organization and function of an actin cytoskeleton inPlasmodium falciparumgametocytes

• DOI: 10.1111/cmi.12359
• Publication Date: 2014-09-16T10:07:02Z
• Authors: Marion Hliscs; Coralie Millet; Matthew W. Dixon; Inga Siden-Kiamos; Paul McMillan; Leann Tilley
• Keywords: Formins; Cytochalasin D; Immunoelectron microscopy; Cytochalasin

In preparation for transmission to its mosquito vector, Plasmodium falciparum, the most virulent of human malaria parasites, adopts an unusual elongated shape. Here we describe a previously unrecognized actin-based cytoskeleton that is assembled in maturing P. falciparum gametocytes. Differential extraction reveals presence highly stabilized population F-actin at all stages development. Super-resolution microscopy concentrated ends elongating gametocyte but extends inward along microtubule cytoskeleton. Formin-1 also suggesting role actin stabilization. Immunoelectron confirms located under inner membrane complex rather than sub-alveolar space. stage V gametocytes, and cytoskeletons are reorganized coordinated fashion. The actin-depolymerizing agent, cytochalasin D, depletes from end whereas actin-stabilizing compound, jasplakinolide, induces formation large bundles prevents late-stage disassembly Long-term treatment with these compounds associated disruption normal mitochondrial organization decreased viability.