Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) and University of Regensburg Reveal Epigenetic Target for New Malaria Drug Development

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) and University of Regensburg Reveal Epigenetic Target for New Malaria Drug Development

(IN BRIEF) A study led by researchers from LMU Munich and the University of Regensburg has revealed crucial insights into the gene regulation of the malaria pathogen, specifically identifying the role of the chromatin remodeler PfSnf2L. This discovery could pave the way for new, more effective antimalarial treatments that target the parasite at all stages of its lifecycle, while also addressing issues of drug resistance.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, 20-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A research team led by Markus Meißner from LMU Munich and Gernot Längst from the University of Regensburg has uncovered crucial information regarding the gene regulation mechanisms of the malaria pathogen, providing a potential foundation for the development of new treatments. These findings could enhance the effectiveness of current antimalarial drugs and help combat the emergence of drug-resistant parasites.

Malaria continues to pose one of the greatest global health threats, with an estimated 247 million infections and over 600,000 deaths recorded in 2022, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. This highlights the urgent need for innovative research to make significant advances in both the prevention and treatment of the disease.

Understanding the Complexities of Malaria Pathogenesis
The malaria parasite, Plasmodium, is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Among the different species of Plasmodium, Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly, with its complex life cycle tightly regulated by gene expression. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms behind this gene expression is essential for developing targeted therapies that can address the pathogen at various stages of its lifecycle.

In their study, the research team identified a key protein complex, PfSnf2L, which plays a critical role in regulating the accessibility of DNA for transcription. This chromatin remodeler is pivotal for the dynamic adjustment of gene expression during the development of P. falciparum. Lead author Maria Theresia Watzlowik explains, “Our research demonstrates that PfSnf2L is essential for the parasite’s ability to modulate gene expression in response to its environment.”

A New Approach to Targeting Malaria
The discovery of PfSnf2L’s unique sequence and functional properties has led to the identification of a highly specific inhibitor that targets only Plasmodium falciparum. According to Gernot Längst, Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Regensburg, “This inhibitor represents a novel class of antimalarials, with the potential to target all stages of the malaria parasite’s lifecycle.” Markus Meißner, Chair Professor of Experimental Parasitology at LMU’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, adds, “By targeting the epigenetic regulation of the parasite, this approach could improve the efficacy of existing treatments and prevent the development of resistance.”

Epigenetics as a Key to Future Malaria Treatments
The research underscores the growing importance of epigenetics in malaria research, as it reveals new potential pathways for combating the parasite. Future studies will focus on testing small molecules that inhibit the parasite’s epigenetic machinery and evaluating their effectiveness in preclinical models. “This study emphasizes how integrating epigenetic strategies could offer fresh opportunities for malaria treatment,” concludes Meißner.

The study involved scientists from LMU Munich, the University of Regensburg, the University of Zurich (Switzerland), Pennsylvania State University (USA), and the University of Glasgow (UK), and was supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG).

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SOURCE: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München