[Identification in Plasmodium falciparum of a protein specifically binding human fibronectins]

A fibronectin binding protein (FnBp) was identified in 3H isoleucine labeled P. falciparum schizonts using affinity chromatography on human fibronectin (Fn) coupled to Sepharose 4B. After incubation of Nonidet-P 40 parasite lysate with Fn-Sepharose, elution was performed with SDS-PAGE buffer. Analysis of FnBp by SDS-PAGE demonstrated a major band which migrated with an apparent Mr of 70,000 under reducing conditions. This band was not found when human or rabbit IgG coupled Sepharose 4B were used instead of Fn as control.