S. H. I. Kappe

Global gene expression of human malaria parasite liver stages throughout intrahepatocytic development

This study provides the first comprehensive gene expression profile of Plasmodium falciparum liver stages during in vivo development, revealing key metabolic and regulatory processes.

A conserved Plasmodium protein that localizes to liver stage nuclei is critical for late liver stage development.

This paper identifies a Plasmodium protein, LINUP, critical for late liver stage development and shows its deletion causes severe attenuation of liver-to-blood stage transition in both P. yoelii and P. falciparum.

Co-immunization with pre-erythrocytic antigens alongside circumsporozoite protein can enhance sterile protection against Plasmodium sporozoite infection.

This paper shows that combining multiple pre-erythrocytic antigens with CSP enhances sterile protection against Plasmodium sporozoite infection in a mouse model.

Plasmodium GPI-Anchored Micronemal Antigen is essential for parasite transmission through the mosquito host

This study shows that GAMA is essential for Plasmodium sporozoite motility, egress from oocysts, and invasion of the vertebrate host, with distinct roles in each process.

Anti-TRAP/SSP2 monoclonal antibodies can inhibit sporozoite infection and enhance protection of anti-CSP monoclonal antibodies

This study shows that anti-TRAP/SSP2 monoclonal antibodies inhibit sporozoite infection and enhance protection from CSP-based antibodies, suggesting a multivalent vaccine strategy could improve malaria vaccines.

Plasmodium falciparum Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 4 is critical for male gametogenesis and transmission to the mosquito vector

This study shows that PfCDPK4 is essential for male gametogenesis in Plasmodium falciparum, affecting exflagellation and parasite transmission to mosquitoes.

Platelet Derived Growth Factor Receptor β (PDGFRβ) is a Host Receptor for the human malaria parasite adhesin TRAP

The paper identifies hPDGFRβ as a host receptor for the malaria parasite TRAP, showing its role in sporozoite motility and infection.

ELQ-331 as a prototype for extremely durable chemoprotection against malaria

This paper evaluates ELQ-331 as a long-acting injectable chemoprotective agent against malaria, showing it provides durable protection in mice for up to 4.5 months.