Induced pluripotent stem cell–based tissue models to study malaria: a new player in the research game

Abstract

Most in vitro studies on parasite development and pathogenesis in the human host have been conducted using traditional primary or immortalized cells, despite their inherent limitations. Breakthroughs in the field of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are revolutionizing disease modeling, offering alternatives to traditional in vivo and in vitro infection models. Human iPSCs differentiate into all cell types, proliferate indefinitely, and offer experimental advantages, like genome editing and donor control. iPSCs can be engineered into complex 3D tissue models that closely mimic morphology and function of their in vivo counterparts and allow for precise experimental manipulation.

The physiological complexity of iPSC-based tissue models has improved rapidly. Given Plasmodium's systemic impact across multiple organs, these models provide an invaluable resource for studying parasite–tissue interactions. This opinion article focuses on recent developments of iPSC-based models for Plasmodium research. We describe the main highlights and potential use of these systems while acknowledging current limitations.