Localization of selected STEVOR variants. Individual STEVORs were localized either in trophozoites, schizonts, or merozoites using anti-PF3D7_0631900 (PFF1550w) (A), anti-PF3D7_1254100 (PFL2610w) (B), and anti-PF3D7_0324600 (PFC1105w) (C) sera. Anti-MSP1 or anti-RAP1 antibodies were used for colocalization experiments. DIC, differential interference contrast Nuclei were stained with DAPI. Scale bars, 1 mm. BF, bright field. The function of a particular STEVOR (PFF1550w) that showed rhoptry localization was demonstrated and its role at the parasite-host interface during host cell invasion by specific antisera and targeted gene disruption, were examined. Experimentally determined membrane topology of this STEVOR revealed a single transmembrane domain exposing the semiconserved as well as variable protein regions to the cell surface.

Wichers JS, Scholz JAM, Strauss J, Witt S, Lill A, Ehnold LI, Neupert N, Liffner B, Lühken R, Petter M, Lorenzen S, Wilson DW, Löw C, Lavazec C, Bruchhaus I, Tannich E, Gilberger TW, Bachmann A. Dissecting the Gene Expression, Localization, Membrane Topology, and Function of the Plasmodium falciparum STEVOR Protein Family. MBio. 2019 10(4). pii: e01500-19.