New insights into apicoplast metabolism in blood-stage malaria parasites. (February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Elahi, Rubayet; Prigge, Sean T
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in microbiology. Volume 71(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02
• Subjects: Microbiology -- Periodicals; 579.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102255
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1369-5274

Abstract

Abstract : The apicoplast of Plasmodium falciparum is the only source of essential isoprenoid precursors and Coenzyme A (CoA) in the parasite. Isoprenoid precursor synthesis relies on the iron–sulfur cluster (FeS) cofactors produced within the apicoplast, rendering FeS synthesis an essential function of this organelle. Recent reports provide important insights into the roles of FeS cofactors and the use of isoprenoid precursors and CoA both inside and outside the apicoplast. Here, we review the recent insights into the roles of these metabolites in blood-stage malaria parasites and discuss new questions that have been raised in light of these discoveries. Highlights: Isoprenoid precursors and CoA are essential metabolites generated by apicoplast-localized enzymes. Isoprenoids play an essential role in apicoplast biogenesis. Depletion of isoprenoids outside the apicoplast results in the delayed-death phenomenon. Some apicoplast pathways remain active following organelle disruption, while other pathways do not.