Mutant/mutation
The mutant lacks expression of P38.

Protein (function)
The P38 protein is a member of a small family of proteins, the 6-cysteine (cys) family of (surface) proteins. The proteins are characterized by domains of roughly 120 amino acids in size that contain six positionally conserved cysteines (6-cys). Although some species of Plasmodium (may) contain unique members of the 6-cys family, ten members have been identified that are conserved both in structure as well as in genome organization throughout the genus. Some of the conserved 6-cys proteins are encoded by genes that form paralogous gene-pairs which are closely linked in the genome separated by less then 2 kb of intergenic region. Most members have a GPI anchor and are predicted membrane surface proteins whereas others appear to be secreted and most members are expressed in a discrete stage-specific manner in gametocytes, sporozoites or merozoites (see also 'Additional Information'). Evidence has been presented that P38 is transcribed in both asexual blood stages and in gametocytes.

Phenotype
Phenotype analyses indicate that P38 is not essential during the complete life cycle. Gametocyte production, fertilisation, oocyst and sporozoite production were comparable to wild type parasites. Liver stage development was only analysed by measuring prepatent periods after feeding of infected mosquitoes on mice. No differences were observed in prepatent periods compared to wild type parasites.

Additional information

Table: P. falciparum gene members of the 6-cys family

 Other mutants