Schematic model for mitochondrial and apicoplast division and segregation in P. falciparum during schizogony. (1) Nuclear division is ongoing, while inner membrane complex (IMC) formation has not started and both the mitochondrion and apicoplast are branched networks. The apicoplast localizes more to the center of the cell, while the mitochondrion is stretched throughout the whole cell. (2) When IMC formation starts, the apicoplast branches associate with the centriolar plaques (CPs) at the periphery of the parasite. (3) The apicoplast divides in a non-2n progression, while it keeps its interaction with the CPs. (4) When the nuclear division is in its final stages, apicoplast division is completely finished. The apical end of the apicoplast fragments associate with the CPs, while mitochondrial branches associate with the basal end of the apicoplast fragments. (5) The IMC develops further and envelops large parts of the nuclei. The mitochondrion orients itself in a cartwheel structure, while its branches align with the apicoplast fragments. (6) IMC formation is almost finished, and just a small opening connects the merozoites to the residual body. The mitochondrion divides in a non-2n progression. The apicoplast still associates with the CPs and aligns with mitochondrial branches/fragments. (7) Merozoite segmentation is complete, the apicoplast loses its clear association with the CPs since they become smaller and do not have a clear extranuclear compartment anymore. The mitochondrion is fully divided and still aligns with the apicoplast. Red blood cell (RBC), parasitophorous vacuole (PV).
