Functional analysis of GRASP in protein transport and Golgi architechture in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum

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All known eukaryotic cells developed specialized compartments within themselves to provide designated reaction chambers in order to control their metabolism. These cells mastered this challenge by evolving a complex endomembrane system. This re-design came with an additional expense: They had to make sure that there is a system in place that is mediating the communication between the individual, subcellular divisions. Within this system, the Golgi apparatus is the operational centerpiece. Although the polarity of this organelle with its cis and trans face is universally conserved, the morphology of the Golgi varies greatly throughout the eukaryotic phylogenetic tree. In this research program we will explore the Golgi of the malaria parasite. This intracellular pathogen with a devastating impact on mankind developed a unique transport system to conquer its ecological niche: the human hepatocytes and erythrocytes. We will exploit the "simple" Golgi morphology of the parasite and its specialized mechanism of protein transport to address some fundamental questions about organelle biology and protein transport. To do so we will focus on the functional analysis of GRASP - a protein that it is involved Golgi architecture and protein trafficking. We will not only probe deep into some elementary questions of cell biology but also initiate translational applications to exploit protein trafficking as a therapeutical target.