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Imaging Plasmodium falciparum-infected ghost and parasite by atomic force microscopy
C R Garcia1, M Takeuschi, K Yoshioka
1Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil.
Abstract:
Atomic force microscopy was used to image the membrane cytoskeleton network of normal and P. falciparum-infected ghosts. The membrane cytoskeleton network was examined in air-dried ghost preparations from normal and infected cells. We found that the spectrin network was changed in infected ghosts. The thickness of the normal red cell membrane was about 15.05 +/- 2.27 nm, while the thickness of the P. falciparum-infected membrane was found to be 22.97 +/- 3.84 nm. The ghost containing ring stage parasites exhibited areas of particle-like protrusions ranging in size from 0.2 to 0.7 micron. The surface of the P. falciparum parasite was also imaged in air-dried samples, showing the existence of a large protrusion extending from the parasite surface.
Insights
Atomic force microscopy revealed changes in the spectrin network of red blood cells infected with Plasmodium falciparum (malaria parasite). Infected cells showed increased membrane thickness and surface protrusions.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Parasitology
Background:
- The membrane cytoskeleton network is crucial for red blood cell structure and function.
- Plasmodium falciparum infection alters red blood cell properties, impacting disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structural changes in the membrane cytoskeleton of red blood cells infected with Plasmodium falciparum using atomic force microscopy.
- To compare the membrane thickness and surface morphology of normal and infected red blood cells.
Main Methods:
- Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was employed to image air-dried preparations of normal and P. falciparum-infected red blood cell ghosts.
- Quantitative measurements of membrane thickness and surface features were performed.
Main Results:
- The spectrin network structure was altered in P. falciparum-infected red blood cell ghosts compared to normal ghosts.
- The average thickness of P. falciparum-infected red blood cell membranes (22.97 ± 3.84 nm) was significantly greater than that of normal red blood cell membranes (15.05 ± 2.27 nm).
- Infected ghosts exhibited particle-like protrusions (0.2–0.7 micron) and the parasite surface showed a large protrusion.
Conclusions:
- Plasmodium falciparum infection induces significant structural modifications to the red blood cell membrane cytoskeleton.
- These structural changes, including increased membrane thickness and surface protrusions, may contribute to altered red blood cell mechanics during malaria infection.