Leishmania plasma membrane - general composition, structure and biological functions.

The plasma membrane (PM) of Leishmania spp. is a highly specialized structure that plays a crucial role in the parasite's survival and adaptation as it transitions between its invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. The unique composition of lipids, sterols, and surface proteins in the Leishmania PM is essential for parasite's ability to thrive and cause disease. This chapter provides an in-depth exploration of the molecular structure and functions of the Leishmania PM, integrating the latest research on its composition and biological roles. It highlights the differences between the two infective forms, promastigotes and amastigotes, which exhibit distinct surface molecule profiles and membrane adaptations suited to life in the sand fly vector and the mammalian host. Key molecules, such as ergosterol, GPI-anchored lipophosphoglycan (LPG), metalloprotease GP63, and other PM molecules, are discussed in the context of immune evasion, host cell entry, intracellular survival, and vaccine development. The chapter emphasizes how understanding the structure and function of the Leishmania plasma membrane can lead to the development of new strategies for treating and preventing leishmaniases.