FIG 1.

Ubiquinone, pyrimidines, and folate metabolism in the malaria parasite. Schematic representation of UQ, folate, and pyrimidine biosynthetic pathways as well as the specific role of UQ in the mitochondrial electron transport system in Plasmodium. The biosynthesis of UQ and folates’ aromatic precursors by the shikimate pathway are also shown. The MEP pathway generates IPP or DMAPP necessary for the formation of longer isoprenic chains by polyprenyl synthases. The previously mentioned biosynthetic pathways are located in different compartments and thus here are represented in a single virtual space. Finally, the UQ biosynthetic pathway and its function in the mitochondria are indicated. UQ functions as an electron carrier for rotenone-insensitive NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh2), dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), malate quinone oxidoreductase, and mitochondrial complex III.