Characterization of a Plasmodium falciparum Macrophage-Migration Inhibitory Factor Homologue

Background Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), one of the first cytokines described, has a broad range of pro-inflammatory properties. The genome sequencing project of Plasmodium falciparum identified a parasite homologue of MIF. The protein is expressed during asexual bloodstages of the parasite lifecycle that cause malarial disease. The identification of a parasite homologue of MIF raised the question whether it affects monocyte function in a similar manner to its human counterpart.