Alternative definition : KEGG: Plasmodium protozoa are parasites that account for malaria infection. Sporozoite
forms of the parasite are injected by mosquito bites under the skin and are carried
to the liver where they develop into the merozoite form. Sporozoite invasion of hepatocytes
is mediated by parasite surface protein like CSP. Subsequent infection into red blood
cells (RBCs) by merozoites causes malaria disease via aberrant cytokine production
and sequestration of parasite-infected red blood cells (pRBCs) to host endothelium.
Microvasculature sequestration in the brain brings about cerebral malaria that can
result in death or persisting neurological impairment. PfEMP1 has been suggested as
the key adhesive molecule of pRBCs.;