Comprehensive analysis of transcripts and proteins relative abundance during Plasmodium falciparum blood stages

We aimed to evaluate the relevance of mRNA study as a proxy of protein expression in sequestered parasites. To do so, we conducted a proteotranscriptomic analysis using five independent P. falciparum laboratory strains samples. RNA sequencing was performed on circulating ring stage parasites and LC-MS/MS on the corresponding sequestered mature forms. All analyzes were performed within the same development cycle for direct individual correlation. mRNA expression level was assessed at the circulating ring stage and the corresponding protein expression level was measured after 18h-24h of maturation to reach the mature trophozoite stage.