Systematic analysis of Plasmodium myosins reveals differential expression, localisation, and function in invasive and proliferative parasite stages

Richard J. Wall (Lead / Corresponding author), Mohammad Zeeshan, Nicholas J. Katris, Rebecca Limenitakis, Edward Rea, Jessica Stock, Declan Brady, Ross F. Waller, Anthony A. Holder (Lead / Corresponding author), Rita Tewari (Lead / Corresponding author)

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)
63 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The myosin superfamily comprises of actin-dependent eukaryotic molecular motors important in a variety of cellular functions. Although well studied in many systems, knowledge of their functions in Plasmodium, the causative agent of malaria, is restricted. Previously, six myosins were identified in this genus, including three Class XIV myosins found only in Apicomplexa and some Ciliates. The well characterised MyoA, is a class XIV myosin essential for gliding motility and invasion. Here, we characterize all other Plasmodium myosins throughout the parasite life cycle and show that they have very diverse patterns of expression and cellular location. MyoB and MyoE, the other two Class XIV myosins, are expressed in all invasive stages, with apical and basal locations, respectively. Gene deletion revealed that MyoE is involved in sporozoite motility, MyoF and MyoK are likely essential in the asexual blood stages, and MyoJ and MyoB are not essential. Both MyoB and its essential light chain (MCL-B) are localised at the apical end of ookinetes but expressed at completely different time points. This work provides a better understanding of the role of actomyosin motors in Apicomplexan parasites, particularly in the motile and invasive stages of Plasmodium during sexual and asexual development within the mosquito.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere13082
JournalCellular Microbiology
Volume21
Issue number10
Early online date8 Jul 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Jul 2019

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Virology

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