Lysosomes and drug resistance in malaria

It is now clear that drugs must be designed that will simultaneously block the integral lysosomal membrane protein (PfCRT)-resistance mechanism and attack the haematin target. That these are not contradictory aims is shown by the relative success of amodiaquine mefloquine and the artemisinins. X-ray crystallography of drug-haematin interaction has not yet been reported and together with more functional studies and structural analysis of PfCRT should be urgently pursued to give a template for much needed new drugs. Haematin remains a key target for antimalarial drug design. Meanwhile in developing countries attempts must continue with the help of international agencies to solve the problems related to cash and infrastructure of access to treatment. (excerpt)