The adhesion of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes to chondroitinsulfate A is mediated by P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1

Chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) is an important receptor for the sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum in the placenta, but the parasite ligand involved in adhesion has not previously been identified. Here we report the identifi cation of a var gene transcribed in association with binding to CSA and pre sent evidence that the P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 product of the gene is the parasite ligand mediating CSA binding. Description of t his gene and the implication of P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 as the parasite ligand paves the way to a more detailed understanding of the pathogenesis of placental infection and potential therapeutic strategie s targeting the interaction.