Abstract
The membrane polypeptide components of mice erythrocyte infected with Plasmodium berghei have been analyzed by sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The results were as follows :
1. Of particular interest was the finding of a substantial reduction in the major membrane polypeptide called spectrin, supporting a critical role for this protein in the control of erythrocyte shape and membrane stability.
2. The extent of phosphorylation of the membrane protein substrated spectrin was markedly decreased ranging 10 to 20 per cent of control. This decreased phosphorylation was due to reduced or defective substrate spectrin.
