Spermatozoa and Plasmodium zoites: the same way to invade oocyte and host cells?

Cell movement or motility is essential for a large variety of processes. Fertilization and host cells invasion by parasites are among the mostly studied models so far. Body of evidences into the literature raises the question that common mechanisms may be found in the sequential events that lead to cell motility in these two particular models. This short review aims at highlighting these common features by comparing knowledge on motile forms of Plasmodium falciparum and one of the best known motile cell namely the spermatozoa. Emphasis will be done on the substantial changes affecting the biochemical, electrophysiological and functional properties of both models.