Investigation of the protein-protein interaction network of an anti-oxidant protein TPxGl in the human malaria parasite P. falciparum

Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease affecting humans with more than 214 million cases worldwide. The most dangerous (and most common) form of malaria is caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Understanding the fundamental biological mechanisms of this parasite is crucial for developing therapies to combat the humanitarian crisis caused by the spread of this disease. In order to unravel the mechanisms of how proteins are transported within the cellular environment of this parasite we must first understand how various proteins interact with one another (a network of interactions). The Patankar Lab has recently identified a particular anti-oxidant protein, TPxGl, as exhibiting unique patterns of subcellular localization which warrant further investigation. This project will apply unique computational bioinformatics tools developed by the Green Lab to investigate the protein interaction network of this, and other, proteins. Towards this goal, the complete network of interactions for P. falciparum will be determined, as well as interactions between parasitic and human proteins. Through these efforts, we aim to elucidate the protein transport pathways within P. falciparum which may ultimately lead to novel discoveries in relation to malaria.

Faculty Supervisor:

James Green

Student:

Kevin Dick

Partner:

Discipline:

Engineering - computer / electrical

Sector:

University:

Carleton University

Program:

Globalink Research Award