Co-localization of PfSPP in mature P. falciparum. Indirect immunofluorescence microscopy using specific antibodies showed PfSPP is co-localized with EBA-175 MAL7P1.176 (a microneme protein), but neither with RAP1 PFE0080c (a rhoptry marker) nor MSP1 PFI1475w (merozoite surface protein) in the P. falciparum (3D7) chizonts. PfSPP is expressed in the micronemes of mature parasites.
The anti-PfSPP Abs showed specific labeling of the merozoite with gold particles in the micronemes (arrows), the apical surface area (arrowheads). The parasite nucleus (Nu), rhoptries (Rh) are indicated.
Li X, Chen H, Oh SS, Chishti AH. A Presenilin-like protease associated with Plasmodium falciparum micronemes is involved in erythrocyte invasion. Mol Biochem Parasitol. 2008 158:22-31. Copyright Elsevier 2009.