The malaria parasite-infected human red blood cell cytoadheres to receptors on the endothelial cells in vital organs of its host by expressing virulence complex proteins on its host cell surface. These proteins traffic through parasite established organelles in the host cell, Maurer’s clefts.

In this project, we set out to study the biogenesis, morphology and composition of Plasmodium lipid droplets, which have not been explored in detail. Identifying proteins involved in lipid metabolism, stress responses and cell signalling and functional studies of these regulatory molecules might reveal new drug targets to combat malaria.

Final year (Honours) or PhD projects can be undertaken in co-supervision with CAM staff where microscopy makes up a substantial part of the research project.