The effect ofPlasmodium falciparumexo-antigens on the morphology of uninfected erythrocytes

Abstract

SUMMARY: It was observed that uninfected red cells resuspended in supernatant fromPlasmodium falciparumcultures, then examined between a glass slide and cover-slip, assumed varying morphologies. A series of experiments suggested thatP. falciparumreleases molecules which cause red cells to become stomatocytic (cupped). These molecules, some of which are heat- stable, have an apparent molecular weight < 12 kDa, are released at or about schizogony, and do not bind tightly to erythrocytes.