Functional analysis of erythrocyte determinants of Plasmodium infection

► Approaches for the functional analysis of erythrocyte determinants of malaria infection are described. ► Methods to identify critical host surface molecules required for erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium parasites are emphasised. ► Potential for transgenic manipulation of erythrocytes in vitro is described. ► Pros and cons of the different technologies used for molecular analysis of the erythrocyte are identified.