Untersuchungen zur Rolle des GPI Transamidase Komplexes der intrazellulären Parasiten Toxoplasma gondii und Plasmodium falciparum

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The aim of this project is to elucidate the structure, biosynthesis and role of several glycolipids of intracellular protozoa belonging to the class of apicomplexa. In the focus of our attention are glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs), (glyco)sphingolipids, and galactolipids. The latter have a role in the formation of the membraneous system of the apicoplast, a plastid of plant origin which is common to all apicomplexan parasites. Glycosphingolipids of Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum, known to be synthesized de novo, will be isolated and their structure elucidated by using radiolabelling and physicochemical methods such as GC-MS. The structures will be compared with the structures of glycosphingolipids found in the host cells. Their biosynthesis and role in intracellular transport will be investigated. As GPIs and (Glyco)sphingolipids are known to have roles in intracellular signalling in addition to their physicochemical functions such as protein anchoring and participation in the formation of rafts etc. their properties in these apicomplexan parasites will be investigated in more detail