Microneme

Micronemes are secretory organelles, possessed by parasitic apicomplexans.

On electron microscopy they have an electron-dense matrix due to the high protein content.

They are specialized secretory organelles important for host-cell invasion and gliding motility.

Only by this initial chemical exchange can the parasite enter into the erythrocyte via actin-myosin motor complex.

It is possible that, while the microneme initiates erythrocyte-binding, the rhoptry secretes proteins to create the PVM, or the parasitophorous vacuole membrane, in which the parasite can survive and reproduce.