Microbiology and Immunology Graduate Program
BS – Biology
St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA

Email: marissa.panichella@drexel.edu

Advisor: Dr. Lawrence W. Bergman

Thesis Research Summary

We are pursuing studies concerning Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of Malaria. Malaria is responsible for up to 500 million clinical cases per year and remains a growing concern. Specifically, we are focused on unmasking the biological function of the Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (MSP-1) of the MSP complex of P. falciparum. MSP-1 remains a prime vaccine candidate and for this reason the specific role is important. Thus far, the interaction of the proteins in this complex, and subsequently their role in invasion has remained unknown. Presently, we are attempting express a portion of this complex on mammalian cells to investigate such interactions that may lead to the invasion of red cells.