[Features of mimicry in Plasmodium falciparum]

In this study, we aim to show, by comparing the amino-acid sequences of several antigens of Plasmodium falciparum with those of some proteins manufactured by the host immune system, that the parasite appears to have a remarkable capacity for mimicry. This would help greatly to reduce the efficiency of the immune response during its asexual cycle. Indeed, the major sporozoite surface protein (CSP) has amino-acid sequences in common with interleukin 1; homologies between Pf 11, expressed at the trophozoite stage, and thymosin alpha 1 may be found. Lastly, RESA present at the schizont stage and protein S liberated when the parasitized erythrocyte is lysed, have sequences in common, respectively with thymosin alpha 1 and thymulin.