Tools for Regulating Gene Expression

The P. falciparum genome encodes ~5,500 predicted open reading frames (ORFs). However, ~50% of these are of unknown function and have no recognizable homology to other sequenced genomes. Understanding the basic function of these uncharacterized genes could potentially lead to new therapeutic and disease prevention options. However, few strategies are available for assigning gene function in P. falciparum. Our long-term goal is to create a diverse and easy-to-use molecular toolkit for robustly controlling gene expression and protein function, thereby enabling the efficient elucidation of parasite gene function.

We emphasize constructing tools that are multi-purpose and broadly applicable across different organisms, including model systems and especially less genetically tractable pathogens. A benefit of this approach is that we are able to take advantage of model organisms to efficiently optimize our regulatory systems, while simultaneously enhancing the genetic toolkit available for studying both model and target organisms. In some instances, we tailor existing technologies to make them compatible with unique aspects of our target organism biology. Alternatively, we use basic principles gleaned from nature to design and systematically develop novel strategies for achieving gene regulation.