Why is the Apicoplast Important in Infectious Diseases?
The apicoplast plays a crucial role in the survival and virulence of certain parasites. It is involved in the biosynthesis of fatty acids, isoprenoids, and heme. These metabolic processes are vital for the parasite, making the apicoplast a potential target for novel antimicrobial drugs. Disrupting the function of the apicoplast can lead to the death of the parasite, thereby treating the infection.
