Mechanisms and targets of Fcγ-receptor mediated immunity to malaria sporozoites

A highly protective vaccine will greatly facilitate achieving and sustaining malaria elimination. Understanding mechanisms of antibody-mediated immunity is crucial for developing vaccines with high efficacy. Here, we identify key roles in humoral immunity for Fc gamma -receptor (Fc gamma R) interactions and opsonic phagocytosis of sporozoites. We identify a major role for neutrophils in mediating phagocytic clearance of sporozoites in peripheral blood, whereas monocytes contribute a minor role. Antibodies also promote natural killer cell activity. Mechanistically, antibody interactions with Fc gamma RIII appear essential, with Fc gamma RIIa also required for maximum activity. All regions of the circumsporozoite protein are targets of functional antibodies against sporozoites, and N-terminal antibodies have more activity in some assays. Functional antibodies are slowly acquired following natural exposure to malaria, being present among some exposed adults, but uncommon among children. Our findings reveal targets and mechanisms of immunity that could be exploited in vaccine design to maximize efficacy. Antibodies plays critical roles in the adaptive immune response to infectious agents including malaria. Here the authors defined antibody interactions with -Fc gamma -receptors expressed on immune cells with sporozoites of Plasmodium falciparum, and identified specific target epitopes of antibodies.

Automated summary

Understanding mechanisms of antibody-mediated immunity is crucial for developing highly protective vaccines against malaria. Our study identified key roles of Fc gamma-receptor interactions and phagocytosis in humoral immunity, highlighting specific targets and mechanisms that could maximize vaccine efficacy. Antibodies play critical roles in adaptive immune responses to infectious agents, with Fc gamma-receptors being essential for their activity against Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites.