The Architectural Factor HMGB1 Is Involved in Genome Organization in the Human Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum

This study identifies HMGB1 as a key protein involved in organizing the genome of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The research shows that HMGB1 helps maintain the structure of chromosomes, particularly around centromeres and telomeres. Without HMGB1, the parasite's virulence genes, which help it evade the immune system, are silenced, suggesting HMGB1 is crucial for malaria pathogenesis.

• 1
  HMGB1 is primarily located in the centromeric regions of Plasmodium falciparum chromosomes.
• 2
  Loss of HMGB1 disrupts the normal organization of chromosomes around centromeres and telomeres, affecting gene expression.
• 3
  Complementation with HMGB1 restores the normal chromosome structure and virulence gene expression.