Plasmodial modifications of erythrocyte surfaces

The maturation of malarial parasites in red blood cells produces major alterations in the composition and properties of the host cell surfaces. Existing surface-exposed proteins are modified and new antigenic glycoproteins are synthesized by the parasite and inserted into the membrane. Some of the neoproteins are associated with surface excrescences on the host cells and in some cases these foster adhesion of those cells to capillary endothelium. The erythrocyte endoskeleton is degraded and in association the infected cells become deformed and lose pliability. An increase in intracellular Ca2+ may contribute to the changes in host cells surfaces.