Flowcytometric and ImageStream RNA-FISH gene expression, quantification and phenotypic characterization of blood and liver stages from human malaria species.

We adapted the RNA FISH stellaris® method to specifically detect the expression of Plasmodium genes by flowcytometry and ImageStream (FlowFISH). This new method accurately quantified the erythrocytic forms of P. falciparum and vivax, and the sexual stages of P. vivax from patient isolates. In addition, ImageStream analysis of liver stage sporozoites using a combination of surface CSP (Circumsporozoite Protein), DNA and 18S RNA labelling proved that the new FlowFISH is suitable for gene expression studies of transmission stages. This powerful multiparametric single-cell method offers a platform of choice for both applied and fundamental research on the biology of malaria parasites.