Variable surface antigen expression, virulence, and persistent infection by Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites

Abstract excerpt

SUMMARY The human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is known for its ability to maintain lengthy infections that can extend for over a year. This property is derived from the parasite’s capacity to continuously alter the antigens expressed on the surface of the infected red blood cell, thereby avoiding antibody recognition and immune destruction. The primary target of the immune system is an antigen called...