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Malaria and other Apicomplexans: the "plant" connection
R J Wilson1, D H Williamson, P Preiser
1National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London, United Kingdom.
Infectious Agents and Disease
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Malaria parasites may have evolved from photosynthetic ancestors. This suggests a residual plastid organelle may exist in many Apicomplexa pathogens, offering new chemotherapy targets.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Recent molecular studies suggest malaria parasites possess a photosynthetic ancestry.
- Phylogenetic evidence indicates this may extend to the phylum Apicomplexa, encompassing pathogens like coccidia and piroplasms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the implications of photosynthetic ancestry in malaria parasites.
- To propose the existence of a residual plastid organelle in Apicomplexa.
- To emphasize the need for further research into the basic biology of these parasites for drug discovery.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of molecular data.
- Review of phylogenetic evidence.
- Comparative biology of Apicomplexa.
Main Results:
- Malaria parasites (Plasmodium) show evidence of photosynthetic ancestry.
- A residual plastid organelle is hypothesized to be present in Apicomplexa.
- This plastid's function remains unknown.
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge traditional views on malaria parasite evolution.
- The potential presence of a residual plastid in Apicomplexa warrants further investigation.
- Understanding parasite biology is crucial for identifying novel chemotherapeutic targets.