Enolase in Malaria Parasite Shows Diverse Functions
Author Information
Author(s): Ipsita Pal-Bhowmick, Hardeep K Vora, Gotam K Jarori
Primary Institution: Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
Hypothesis
The study investigates the sub-cellular localization and post-translational modifications of enolase in Plasmodium yoelii to explore its potential moonlighting functions.
Conclusion
Enolase is associated with nuclei, cell membranes, and cytoskeletal elements, indicating its non-glycolytic functions in P. yoelii.
Supporting Evidence
- Enolase was found in both soluble and particulate fractions of P. yoelii.
- Immunofluorescence assays confirmed the nuclear presence of enolase.
- Five different isoforms of enolase were identified, with some arising from phosphorylation.
Takeaway
The study found that a protein called enolase, which helps in energy production, also does other important jobs in malaria parasites by being in different parts of the cell.
Methodology
The study used biochemical sub-cellular fractionation followed by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence to investigate enolase localization.
Participant Demographics
Mice infected with P. yoelii strain 17XL.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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