Expanding the antimalarial toolkit: Targeting host-parasite interactions

Abstract

Recent successes in malaria control are threatened by drug-resistant Plasmodium parasites and insecticide-resistant Anopheles mosquitoes, and first generation vaccines offer only partial protection. New research approaches have highlighted host as well as parasite molecules or pathways that could be targeted for interventions. In this study, we discuss host-parasite interactions at the different stages of the Plasmodium life cycle within the mammalian host and the potential for therapeutics that prevent parasite migration, invasion, intracellular growth, or egress from host cells, as well as parasite-induced pathology.

Figure 1.

Potential points of intervention in the preerythrocytic stages of the Plasmodium life cycle. (1) Frevert et al., 1996; Coppi et al., 2007; (2) Mota et al., 2002; Cha et al., 2015; (3) Yalaoui et al., 2008; Foquet et al., 2015; (4) Liehl et al., 2014; (5) Epiphanio et al., 2008; Sinnis and Ernst, 2008; (6) Prado et al., 2015.

Figure 2.

Potential points of intervention in the erythrocytic stages of the Plasmodium life cycle. (1) Horuk et al., 1993; Chitnis et al., 1996; (2) Zenonos et al., 2015; (3) Egan et al., 2015; (4) McMorran et al., 2009; Love et al., 2012; (5) Dormeyer et al., 2006; Soerli et al., 2009; (6) Butler et al., 2012; Horne-Debets et al., 2013; (7) Berretta et al., 2011; Abel et al., 2012; (8) Grau et al., 1987, ; Engwerda et al., 2002; (9) Epiphanio et al., 2010; Hempel et al., 2014; (10) Raj et al., 2014; (11) Chandramohanadas et al., 2009; Millholland et al., 2011.