Plasmodial Transcription Factors and Chromatin Modifiers as Drug Targets

Author(s)

Ortega Sepulveda, Luisa Fernanda ; de Oliveira, Gabriela Mendes ; Nunes Chagas, Elaine Hellen ; Wild, Nele ; da Paz, Franciarli Silva ; Wrenger, Carsten ; Wunderlich, Gerhard

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: FUTURE PHARMACOLOGY; v. 3, n. 4, p. 16-pg., 2023-12-01.

Abstract

The complex life cycle of the malaria parasite Plasmodium requires the parasite to adequately adapt to different conditions. For this reason, Plasmodium strictly controls its gene expression, and given its evolutionary distance from the human host, the involved factors may figure as attractive potential drug targets. In recent years, several unique transcription factors and chromatin modifiers have been identified and partially characterized in Plasmodium falciparum and in the murine species P. yoelii and P. berghei. This review unites data from studies focusing on drug development against enigmatic plant-like AP2-transcription factors and chromatin modifiers, such as histone acetyl transferases and deacetylases and histone methyltransferases and demethylases. Considering the reported success of inhibition of both factors, these may be included as targets to effectively combat the parasite by perturbing its control of gene expression. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/13727-2 - Towards understanding of expression control in Malaria parasites: from variant gene families in Plasmodium falciparum to pathogeny and inhibition of transmission
• Grantee: Gerhard Wunderlich
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 15/26722-8 - Drug discovery against human infectious diseases
• Grantee: Carsten Wrenger
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants