Stage-specific proteins and glycoproteins of plasmodium falciparum: identification of antigens unique to schizonts and merozoites.

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Abstract
Establishment of highly synchronized cultures of P. falciparum enabled identification of stage-specific proteins, glycoproteins and antigens. Comparison of metabolically labeled constituents of rings, trophozoites, mature schizonts and merozoites indicated that absence of major proteins or glycoproteins unique to rings or trophozoites. A burst of new synthetic activity occurred during schizogony when several schizont- and merozoite-specific proteins and glycoproteins became apparent. In addition to the knob protein, which was associated with protrusions on the host erythrocyte membrane, a major glycoprotein of parasite origin was identified on the surface membrane of schizonts. Analysis of antigens solubilized from different developmental stages indicated that immune [rabbit or human] sera, which inhibit growth of parasites in vitro, react mainly with meroxoite- and schizont-associated antigens.