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Ben Chaabene R, Lentini G, Soldati-Favre D. Biogenesis and discharge of the rhoptries: Key organelles for entry and hijack of host cells by the Apicomplexa. Mol Microbiol 2021; 115:453-465. [PMID: 33368727 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Rhoptries are specialized secretory organelles found in the Apicomplexa phylum, playing a central role in the establishment of parasitism. The rhoptry content includes membranous as well as proteinaceous materials that are discharged into the host cell in a regulated fashion during parasite entry. A set of rhoptry neck proteins form a RON complex that critically participates in the moving junction formation during invasion. Some of the rhoptry bulb proteins are associated with the membranous materials and contribute to the formation of the parasitophorous vacuole membrane while others are targeted into the host cell including the nucleus to subvert cellular functions. Here, we review the recent studies on Toxoplasma and Plasmodium parasites that shed light on the key steps leading to rhoptry biogenesis, trafficking, and discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouaa Ben Chaabene
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, CMU, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaëlle Lentini
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, CMU, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, CMU, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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102
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An Alveolata secretory machinery adapted to parasite host cell invasion. Nat Microbiol 2021; 6:425-434. [PMID: 33495622 PMCID: PMC8886610 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-020-00854-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Apicomplexa are unicellular eukaryotes and obligate intracellular parasites, including Plasmodium (the causative agent of malaria) and Toxoplasma (one of the most widespread zoonotic pathogens). Rhoptries, one of their specialized secretory organelles, undergo regulated exocytosis during invasion1. Rhoptry proteins are injected directly into the host cell to support invasion and subversion of host immune function2. The mechanism by which they are discharged is unclear and appears distinct from those in bacteria, yeast, animals and plants. Here, we show that rhoptry secretion in Apicomplexa shares structural and genetic elements with the exocytic machinery of ciliates, their free-living relatives. Rhoptry exocytosis depends on intramembranous particles in the shape of a rosette embedded into the plasma membrane of the parasite apex. Formation of this rosette requires multiple non-discharge (Nd) proteins conserved and restricted to Ciliata, Dinoflagellata and Apicomplexa that together constitute the superphylum Alveolata. We identified Nd6 at the site of exocytosis in association with an apical vesicle. Sandwiched between the rosette and the tip of the rhoptry, this vesicle appears as a central element of the rhoptry secretion machine. Our results describe a conserved secretion system that was adapted to provide defence for free-living unicellular eukaryotes and host cell injection in intracellular parasites.
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103
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Goodson HV, Kelley JB, Brawley SH. Cytoskeletal diversification across 1 billion years: What red algae can teach us about the cytoskeleton, and vice versa. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2000278. [PMID: 33797088 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202000278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The cytoskeleton has a central role in eukaryotic biology, enabling cells to organize internally, polarize, and translocate. Studying cytoskeletal machinery across the tree of life can identify common elements, illuminate fundamental mechanisms, and provide insight into processes specific to less-characterized organisms. Red algae represent an ancient lineage that is diverse, ecologically significant, and biomedically relevant. Recent genomic analysis shows that red algae have a surprising paucity of cytoskeletal elements, particularly molecular motors. Here, we review the genomic and cell biological evidence and propose testable models of how red algal cells might perform processes including cell motility, cytokinesis, intracellular transport, and secretion, given their reduced cytoskeletons. In addition to enhancing understanding of red algae and lineages that evolved from red algal endosymbioses (e.g., apicomplexan parasites), these ideas may also provide insight into cytoskeletal processes in animal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly V Goodson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Joshua B Kelley
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Susan H Brawley
- School of Marine Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
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104
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Kwong WK, Irwin NAT, Mathur V, Na I, Okamoto N, Vermeij MJA, Keeling PJ. Taxonomy of the Apicomplexan Symbionts of Coral, including Corallicolida ord. nov., Reassignment of the Genus Gemmocystis, and Description of New Species Corallicola aquarius gen. nov. sp. nov. and Anthozoaphila gnarlus gen. nov. sp. nov. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2021; 68:e12852. [PMID: 33768669 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Corals (Metazoa; Cnidaria; Anthozoa) have recently been shown to play host to a widespread and diverse group of intracellular symbionts of the phylum Apicomplexa. These symbionts, colloquially called "corallicolids", are mostly known through molecular analyses, and no formal taxonomy has been proposed. Another apicomplexan, Gemmocystis cylindrus (described from the coral Dendrogyra cylindrus), may be related to corallicolids, but lacks molecular data. Here, we isolate and describe motile trophozoite (feeding) corallicolids cells using microscopic (light, SEM, and TEM) and molecular phylogenetic analysis to provide the basis for a formal description. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear and plastid rRNA operons, and three mitochondrial protein sequences derived from single cell transcriptomes, all confirm that these organisms fall into a discrete deep-branching clade within the Apicomplexa not closely related to any known species or major subgroup. As a result, we assign this clade to a new order, Corallicolida ord. nov., and family, Corallicolidae fam. nov. We describe a type species, Corallicola aquarius gen. nov. sp. nov. from its Rhodactis sp. host, and also describe a second species, Anthozoaphila gnarlus gen. nov. sp. nov., from the coral host Madracis mirabilis. Finally, we propose reassigning the incertae sedis taxon G. cylindrus from the order Agamococcidiorida to the Corallicolida, based on similarities in morphology and host localization to that of the corallicolids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waldan K Kwong
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Nicholas A T Irwin
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Varsha Mathur
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ina Na
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Noriko Okamoto
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Mark J A Vermeij
- Aquatic Microbiology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 700, Amsterdam, 1098 XH, The Netherlands
- CARMABI Foundation, PO Box 2090, Piscaderabaai z/n, Willemstad, Curaçao
| | - Patrick J Keeling
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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105
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Robert-Paganin J, Xu XP, Swift MF, Auguin D, Robblee JP, Lu H, Fagnant PM, Krementsova EB, Trybus KM, Houdusse A, Volkmann N, Hanein D. The actomyosin interface contains an evolutionary conserved core and an ancillary interface involved in specificity. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1892. [PMID: 33767187 PMCID: PMC7994445 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22093-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria, moves by an atypical process called gliding motility. Actomyosin interactions are central to gliding motility. However, the details of these interactions remained elusive until now. Here, we report an atomic structure of the divergent Plasmodium falciparum actomyosin system determined by electron cryomicroscopy at the end of the powerstroke (Rigor state). The structure provides insights into the detailed interactions that are required for the parasite to produce the force and motion required for infectivity. Remarkably, the footprint of the myosin motor on filamentous actin is conserved with respect to higher eukaryotes, despite important variability in the Plasmodium falciparum myosin and actin elements that make up the interface. Comparison with other actomyosin complexes reveals a conserved core interface common to all actomyosin complexes, with an ancillary interface involved in defining the spatial positioning of the motor on actin filaments. Plasmodium falciparum moves by an atypical process called gliding motility which comprises of atypical myosin A (PfMyoA) and filaments of the dynamic and divergent PfActin-1 (PfAct1). Here authors present the cryo-EM structure of PfMyoA bound to filamentous PfAct1 stabilized with jasplakinolide and provide insights into the interactions that are required for the parasite to produce the force and motion required for infectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel Auguin
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, CNRS, UMR 144, Paris, France.,Laboratoire de Biologie des Ligneux et des Grandes Cultures (LBLGC), Université d'Orléans, INRAE, USC1328, Orléans, France
| | - James P Robblee
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Hailong Lu
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Patricia M Fagnant
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Elena B Krementsova
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kathleen M Trybus
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Anne Houdusse
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, CNRS, UMR 144, Paris, France.
| | - Niels Volkmann
- Scintillon Institute, San Diego, CA, USA. .,Structural Image Analysis Unit, Department of Structural Biology & Chemistry, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
| | - Dorit Hanein
- Scintillon Institute, San Diego, CA, USA.,Structural Studies of Macromolecular Machines in Cellulo Unit, Department of Structural Biology & Chemistry, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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106
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Ukegbu CV, Christophides GK, Vlachou D. Identification of Three Novel Plasmodium Factors Involved in Ookinete to Oocyst Developmental Transition. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:634273. [PMID: 33791240 PMCID: PMC8005625 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.634273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum malaria remains a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. The numbers of new malaria cases and deaths have been stable in the last years despite intense efforts for disease elimination, highlighting the need for new approaches to stop disease transmission. Further understanding of the parasite transmission biology could provide a framework for the development of such approaches. We phenotypically and functionally characterized three novel genes, PIMMS01, PIMMS57, and PIMMS22, using targeted disruption of their orthologs in the rodent parasite Plasmodium berghei. PIMMS01 and PIMMS57 are specifically and highly expressed in ookinetes, while PIMMS22 transcription starts already in gametocytes and peaks in sporozoites. All three genes show strong phenotypes associated with the ookinete to oocyst transition, as their disruption leads to very low numbers of oocysts and complete abolishment of transmission. PIMMS22 has a secondary essential function in the oocyst. Our results enrich the molecular understanding of the parasite-vector interactions and identify PIMMS01, PIMMS57, and PIMMS22 as new targets of transmission blocking interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiamaka V Ukegbu
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - George K Christophides
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,The Cyprus Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Dina Vlachou
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,The Cyprus Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus
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107
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Li FC, Nie LB, Elsheikha HM, Yin FY, Zhu XQ. Lysine crotonylation is widespread on proteins of diverse functions and localizations in Toxoplasma gondii. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1617-1626. [PMID: 33655350 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07057-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Lysine crotonylation (Kcr) is an evolutionally conserved post-translational modification (PTM) on histone proteins. However, information about Kcr and its involvement in the biology and metabolism of Toxoplasma gondii is limited. In the present study, a global Kcr proteome analysis using LC-MS/MS in combination with immune-affinity method was performed. A total of 12,152 Kcr sites distributed over 2719 crotonylated proteins were identified. Consistent with lysine acetylation and succinylation in Apicomplexa, Kcr was associated with various metabolic pathways, including carbon metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and proteasome. Markedly, many stage-specific proteins, histones, and histone-modifying enzymes related to the stage transition were found to have Kcr sites, suggesting a potential involvement of Kcr in the parasite stage transformation. Most components of the apical secretory organelles were identified as crotonylated proteins which were associated with the attachment, invasion, and replication of T. gondii. These results expanded our understanding of Kcr proteome and proposed new hypotheses for further research of the Kcr roles in the pathobiology of T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa-Cai Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan-Bi Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Fang-Yuan Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801, Shanxi Province, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan Province, People's Republic of China.
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108
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Dehydroepiandrosterone Effect on Toxoplasma gondii: Molecular Mechanisms Associated to Parasite Death. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030513. [PMID: 33801356 PMCID: PMC8000356 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the apicomplexa protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This disease is a health burden, mainly in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has proved to be an important molecule that could drive resistance against a variety of infections, including intracellular parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum and Trypanozoma cruzi, among others. However, to date, the role of DHEA on T. gondii has not been explored. Here, we demonstrated for the first time the toxoplasmicidal effect of DHEA on extracellular tachyzoites. Ultrastructural analysis of treated parasites showed that DHEA alters the cytoskeleton structures, leading to the loss of the organelle structure and organization as well as the loss of the cellular shape. In vitro treatment with DHEA reduces the viability of extracellular tachyzoites and the passive invasion process. Two-dimensional (2D) SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that in the presence of the hormone, a progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC) with a cytochrome b5 family heme/steroid binding domain-containing protein was expressed, while the expression of proteins that are essential for motility and virulence was highly reduced. Finally, in vivo DHEA treatment induced a reduction of parasitic load in male, but not in female mice.
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109
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Bertiaux E, Balestra AC, Bournonville L, Louvel V, Maco B, Soldati-Favre D, Brochet M, Guichard P, Hamel V. Expansion microscopy provides new insights into the cytoskeleton of malaria parasites including the conservation of a conoid. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001020. [PMID: 33705377 PMCID: PMC7951857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is caused by unicellular Plasmodium parasites. Plasmodium relies on diverse microtubule cytoskeletal structures for its reproduction, multiplication, and dissemination. Due to the small size of this parasite, its cytoskeleton has been primarily observable by electron microscopy (EM). Here, we demonstrate that the nanoscale cytoskeleton organisation is within reach using ultrastructure expansion microscopy (U-ExM). In developing microgametocytes, U-ExM allows monitoring the dynamic assembly of axonemes and concomitant tubulin polyglutamylation in whole cells. In the invasive merozoite and ookinete forms, U-ExM unveils the diversity across Plasmodium stages and species of the subpellicular microtubule arrays that confer cell rigidity. In ookinetes, we additionally identify an apical tubulin ring (ATR) that colocalises with markers of the conoid in related apicomplexan parasites. This tubulin-containing structure was presumed to be lost in Plasmodium despite its crucial role in motility and invasion in other apicomplexans. Here, U-ExM reveals that a divergent and considerably reduced form of the conoid is actually conserved in Plasmodium species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloïse Bertiaux
- University of Geneva, Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aurélia C. Balestra
- University of Geneva, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lorène Bournonville
- University of Geneva, Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Louvel
- University of Geneva, Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bohumil Maco
- University of Geneva, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- University of Geneva, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Brochet
- University of Geneva, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul Guichard
- University of Geneva, Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Virginie Hamel
- University of Geneva, Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Geneva, Switzerland
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110
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Koreny L, Zeeshan M, Barylyuk K, Tromer EC, van Hooff JJE, Brady D, Ke H, Chelaghma S, Ferguson DJP, Eme L, Tewari R, Waller RF. Molecular characterization of the conoid complex in Toxoplasma reveals its conservation in all apicomplexans, including Plasmodium species. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001081. [PMID: 33705380 PMCID: PMC7951837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The apical complex is the instrument of invasion used by apicomplexan parasites, and the conoid is a conspicuous feature of this apparatus found throughout this phylum. The conoid, however, is believed to be heavily reduced or missing from Plasmodium species and other members of the class Aconoidasida. Relatively few conoid proteins have previously been identified, making it difficult to address how conserved this feature is throughout the phylum, and whether it is genuinely missing from some major groups. Moreover, parasites such as Plasmodium species cycle through 3 invasive forms, and there is the possibility of differential presence of the conoid between these stages. We have applied spatial proteomics and high-resolution microscopy to develop a more complete molecular inventory and understanding of the organisation of conoid-associated proteins in the model apicomplexan Toxoplasma gondii. These data revealed molecular conservation of all conoid substructures throughout Apicomplexa, including Plasmodium, and even in allied Myzozoa such as Chromera and dinoflagellates. We reporter-tagged and observed the expression and location of several conoid complex proteins in the malaria model P. berghei and revealed equivalent structures in all of its zoite forms, as well as evidence of molecular differentiation between blood-stage merozoites and the ookinetes and sporozoites of the mosquito vector. Collectively, we show that the conoid is a conserved apicomplexan element at the heart of the invasion mechanisms of these highly successful and often devastating parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludek Koreny
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammad Zeeshan
- School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Konstantin Barylyuk
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Eelco C. Tromer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jolien J. E. van Hooff
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Orsay, France
| | - Declan Brady
- School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Huiling Ke
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Chelaghma
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David J. P. Ferguson
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Science, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Eme
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, AgroParisTech, Ecologie Systématique Evolution, Orsay, France
| | - Rita Tewari
- School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ross F. Waller
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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111
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Multivalent Interactions Drive the Toxoplasma AC9:AC10:ERK7 Complex To Concentrate ERK7 in the Apical Cap. mBio 2021; 13:e0286421. [PMID: 35130732 PMCID: PMC8822341 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02864-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The Toxoplasma inner membrane complex (IMC) is a specialized organelle that is crucial for the parasite to establish an intracellular lifestyle and ultimately cause disease. The IMC is composed of both membrane and cytoskeletal components, further delineated into the apical cap, body, and basal subcompartments. The apical cap cytoskeleton was recently demonstrated to govern the stability of the apical complex, which controls parasite motility, invasion, and egress. While this role was determined by individually assessing the apical cap proteins AC9, AC10, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK7, how the three proteins collaborate to stabilize the apical complex is unknown. In this study, we use a combination of deletion analyses and yeast two-hybrid experiments to establish that these proteins form an essential complex in the apical cap. We show that AC10 is a foundational component of the AC9:AC10:ERK7 complex and demonstrate that the interactions among them are critical to maintaining the apical complex. Importantly, we identify multiple independent regions of pairwise interaction between each of the three proteins, suggesting that the AC9:AC10:ERK7 complex is organized by multivalent interactions. Together, these data support a model in which multiple interacting domains enable the oligomerization of the AC9:AC10:ERK7 complex and its assembly into the cytoskeletal IMC, which serves as a structural scaffold that concentrates ERK7 kinase activity in the apical cap. IMPORTANCE The phylum Apicomplexa consists of obligate, intracellular parasites, including the causative agents of toxoplasmosis, malaria, and cryptosporidiosis. Hallmarks of these parasites are the IMC and the apical complex, both of which are unique structures that are conserved throughout the phylum and required for parasite survival. The apical cap portion of the IMC has previously been shown to stabilize the apical complex. Here, we expand on those studies to determine the precise protein-protein interactions of the apical cap complex that confer this essential function. We describe the multivalent nature of these interactions and show that the resulting protein oligomers likely tether ERK7 in the apical cap. This study represents the first description of the architecture of the apical cap at a molecular level, expanding our understanding of the unique cell biology that drives Toxoplasma infections.
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112
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Identification and Molecular Dissection of IMC32, a Conserved Toxoplasma Inner Membrane Complex Protein That Is Essential for Parasite Replication. mBio 2021; 12:mBio.03622-20. [PMID: 33593973 PMCID: PMC8545131 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03622-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The inner membrane complex (IMC) is a unique organelle of apicomplexan parasites that plays critical roles in parasite motility, host cell invasion, and replication. Despite the common functions of the organelle, relatively few IMC proteins are conserved across the phylum and the precise roles of many IMC components remain to be characterized. Here, we identify a novel component of the Toxoplasma gondii IMC (IMC32) that localizes to the body portion of the IMC and is recruited to developing daughter buds early during endodyogeny. IMC32 is essential for parasite survival, as its conditional depletion results in a complete collapse of the IMC that is lethal to the parasite. We demonstrate that localization of IMC32 is dependent on both an N-terminal palmitoylation site and a series of C-terminal coiled-coil domains. Using deletion analyses and functional complementation, we show that two conserved regions within the C-terminal coiled-coil domains play critical roles in protein function during replication. Together, this work reveals an essential component of parasite replication that provides a novel target for therapeutic intervention of T. gondii and related apicomplexan parasites.IMPORTANCE The IMC is an important organelle that apicomplexan parasites use to maintain their intracellular lifestyle. While many IMC proteins have been identified, only a few central players that are essential for internal budding have been described and even fewer are conserved across the phylum. Here, we identify IMC32, a novel component of the Toxoplasma gondii IMC that localizes to very early daughter buds, indicating a role in the early stages of parasite replication. We then demonstrate that IMC32 is essential for parasite survival and pinpoint conserved regions within the protein that are important for membrane association and daughter cell formation. As IMC32 is unique to these parasites and not present in their mammalian hosts, it serves as a new target for the development of drugs that exclusively affect these important intracellular pathogens.
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113
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Wang X, Tang D, Wang F, Jin G, Wang L, Liu Q, Liu J. Microneme Protein 6 Is Involved in Invasion and Egress by Neospora caninum. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10020201. [PMID: 33668497 PMCID: PMC7918358 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neospora caninum, is the etiological agent of neosporosis, an infection that causes abortions in cattle and nervous system dysfunction in dogs. Invasion and egress are the key steps of the pathogenesis of N. caninum infection. Microneme proteins (MICs) play important roles in the recognition, adhesion, and invasion of host cells in other apicomplexan parasites. However, some MICs and their functions in N. caninum infection have rarely been reported. METHODS The homologous recombination strategy was used to investigate the function of MIC6 in N. caninum infection. RESULTS ΔNcMIC6 showed a smaller plaque size and weakened capacities of invasion and egress than Nc1. Transcription levels of the egress-related genes CDPK1, PLP1, and AMA1 of ΔNcMIC6 were downregulated. Due to the lack of NcMIC6, virulence of the pathogen in the infected mouse was weakened. The subcellular localization of NcMIC1 and NcMIC4 in ΔNcMIC6, however, did not change. Nevertheless, the transcription levels of MIC1 and MIC4 in ΔNcMIC6 were downregulated, and the expression and secretion of MIC1 and MIC4 in ΔNcMIC6 were reduced compared with that in Nc1. Furthermore, the absence of NcMIC6 weakened the virulence in mice and lower parasite load detected in mice brains. CONCLUSIONS NcMIC6 is involved in host cell invasion and egress in N. caninum and may work synergistically with other MICs to regulate the virulence of the pathogen. These data lay a foundation for further research into the function and application of NcMIC6.
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Arredondo SA, Schepis A, Reynolds L, Kappe SHI. Secretory Organelle Function in the Plasmodium Sporozoite. Trends Parasitol 2021; 37:651-663. [PMID: 33589364 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium sporozoites exhibit a complex infection biology in the mosquito and mammalian hosts. The sporozoite apical secretory organelles, the micronemes and rhoptries, store protein mediators of parasite/host/vector interactions and must secrete them in a temporally and spatially well orchestrated manner. Micronemal proteins are critical for sporozoite motility throughout its journey from the mosquito midgut oocyst to the mammalian liver, and also for cell traversal (CT) and hepatocyte invasion. Rhoptry proteins, until recently thought to be only important for hepatocyte invasion, appear to also play an unexpected role in motility and in the interaction with mosquito tissue. Therefore, navigating the different microenvironments with secretion likely requires the sporozoite to have a more complex system of secretory organelles than previously appreciated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia A Arredondo
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Antonino Schepis
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Laura Reynolds
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Stefan H I Kappe
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
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115
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Cruz-Mirón R, Ramírez-Flores CJ, Lagunas-Cortés N, Mondragón-Castelán M, Ríos-Castro E, González-Pozos S, Aguirre-García MM, Mondragón-Flores R. Proteomic characterization of the pellicle of Toxoplasma gondii. J Proteomics 2021; 237:104146. [PMID: 33588107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most successful intracellular parasites in the world. The dynamic, adhesion, invasion, and even replication capabilities of Toxoplasma are based on dynamic machinery located in the pellicle, a three membrane complex that surrounds the parasite. Among the proteins that carry out these processes are inner membrane complex (IMC) proteins, gliding-associated proteins (GAP), diverse myosins, actin, tubulin, and SRS proteins. Despite the importance of the pellicle, the knowledge of its composition is limited. Broad protein identification from an enriched pellicle fraction was obtained by independent digestion with trypsin and chymotrypsin and quantified by mass spectrometry. By trypsin digestion, 548 proteins were identified, while by chymotrypsin digestion, additional 22 proteins were identified. Besides, a group of "sequences related to SAG1" proteins (SRS) were detected together with unidentified new proteins. From identified SRS proteins, SRS51 was chosen for analysis and modeling as its similarities with crystallized adhesion proteins, exhibiting the presence of a spatial groove that is apparently involved in adhesion and cell invasion. As SRS proteins have been reported to be involved in the activation of the host's immune response, further studies could consider them as targets in the design of vaccines or of drugs against Toxoplasma. SIGNIFICANCE: To date, the proteomic composition of the pellicle of Toxoplasma is unknown. Most proteins reported in Toxoplasma pellicle have been poorly studied, and many others remain unidentified. Herein, a group of new SRS proteins is described. Some SRS proteins previously described from pellicle fraction have adhesion properties to the host cell membrane, so their study would provide data related to invasion mechanism and to open possibilities for considering them as targets in the design of immunoprotective strategies or the design of new pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Cruz-Mirón
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508, Ciudad de México C.P. 07360, Mexico
| | - Carlos J Ramírez-Flores
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508, Ciudad de México C.P. 07360, Mexico; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Noé Lagunas-Cortés
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508, Ciudad de México C.P. 07360, Mexico
| | - Mónica Mondragón-Castelán
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508, Ciudad de México C.P. 07360, Mexico
| | | | | | - M Magdalena Aguirre-García
- Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Mondragón-Flores
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. IPN No. 2508, Ciudad de México C.P. 07360, Mexico.
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Martins GL, Ferreira DS, Ramalho GLB. Collateral motion saliency-based model for Trypanosoma cruzi detection in dye-free blood microscopy. Comput Biol Med 2021; 132:104220. [PMID: 33799216 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The motion performed by some protozoa is a crucial visual stimulus in microscopy analysis, especially when they have almost imperceptible morphological characteristics. Microorganisms can be distinguished through the interactions of their locomotion with neighboring elements, as observed in some parasitological analysis of Trypanosoma cruzi. In dye-free blood microscopy, the low contrast of this parasite makes it difficult to detect them. Thus, the parasite's interaction with the neighborhood, such as collisions with blood cells and shocks during the escape of confinements in cell clumps, generates collateral motions that assist its detection. Assuming that the collateral motion of the parasite can be sufficiently noticeable to overcome the dynamic contexts of inspection, we propose a novel computational approach that is based on motion saliency. We estimate motion in microscopy videos using dense optical flow and we investigate vestiges in saliency maps that could characterize the collateral motion of parasites. Our biological-inspired method shows that the parasite's collateral motion is a relevant feature for T. cruzi detection. Therefore, our computational model is a promising aid in the research and medical diagnosis of Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geovani L Martins
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência da Computação, Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia (IFCE), Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil; Laboratório de Processamento de Imagens, Sinais e Computação Aplicada (LAPISCO), Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.
| | - Daniel S Ferreira
- Departamento de Computação, Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia (IFCE), Maracanaú, Ceará, Brazil; Departamento de Engenharia de Teleinformática, Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Geraldo L B Ramalho
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência da Computação, Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia (IFCE), Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil; Laboratório de Processamento de Imagens, Sinais e Computação Aplicada (LAPISCO), Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Abstract
Micronemes are specialized secretory organelles present in all motile forms of apicomplexan parasites. Microneme vesicles hold adhesins and other proteins that are secreted to facilitate parasite attachment, invasion of host cells, and egress following replication-all processes indispensable for cell-to-cell transmission of these obligate intracellular parasites. Defining the signaling pathways that lead to microneme secretion is an important part of understanding the infectious cycle of apicomplexan parasites. However, the classical method of measuring microneme secretion by immunoblotting for microneme proteins in parasite excreted/secreted antigen (ESA) preparations is low-throughput and only semiquantitative. We recently reported a new luciferase-based method for measuring microneme secretion in a 96-well format with high sensitivity in the model apicomplexan Toxoplasma gondii. Here, we aim to elaborate on this detection method and review current practices for stimulating microneme secretion in vitro.
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118
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He C, Xu MZ, Pan S, Wang H, Peng HJ, Liu ZZ. iTRAQ-Based Phosphoproteomic Analysis of Toxoplasma gondii Tachyzoites Provides Insight Into the Role of Phosphorylation for its Invasion and Egress. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:586466. [PMID: 33363051 PMCID: PMC7756149 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.586466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The invasion and egress are two key steps in lytic cycle vital to the propagation of Toxoplasma gondii infection, and phosphorylation is believed to play important roles in these processes. However, the phosphoproteome of T. gondii at these two stages has not been characterized. In this study, we profiled the phosphoproteome of tachyzoites at the stages of “just invading” (JI) and “prior to egress” (PE) based on iTRAQ quantitative analysis, in which a total of 46 phosphopeptides, 42 phosphorylation sites, and 38 phosphoproteins were detected. In the comparison of PE vs. JI, 10 phosphoproteins were detected with their phosphorylation level significantly changed, and four of them were demonstrated to be significantly down-regulated at the transcriptional level. Bioinformatic analysis of these identified phosphoproteins suggested that phosphorylation-mediated modulation of protein function was employed to regulate the pathway of toxoplasmosis and metabolism and cellular processes correlated with tachyzoite’s binding, location, and metabolism, and thus play vital roles in the parasite lytic cycle. Moreover, cytoskeletal network (CN)-associated Inner Membrane Complex (IMC1, IMC4, IMC6 and IMC12), Intravascular Network (IVN)-related GRAs (GRA2, GRA3, GRA7 and GRA12), and Parasitophorous Vacuole Membrane (PVM)-localized ROP5 were shown to be enriched at the central nodes in the protein interaction network generated by bioinformatic analysis, in which the phosphorylation level of IMC4, GRA2, GRA3, and GRA12 were found to be significantly regulated. This study revealed the main cellular processes and key phosphoproteins crucial for the invasion and egress of T. gondii, which will provide new insights into the developmental biology of T. gondii in vitro and contribute to the understanding of pathogen-host interaction from the parasite perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Mei-Zhen Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shuai Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hong-Juan Peng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuan-Zhuan Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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Uboldi AD, Wilde ML, Bader SM, Tonkin CJ. Environmental sensing and regulation of motility in Toxoplasma. Mol Microbiol 2020; 115:916-929. [PMID: 33278047 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma and other apicomplexan parasites undergo a unique form of cellular locomotion referred to as "gliding motility." Gliding motility is crucial for parasite survival as it powers tissue dissemination, host cell invasion and egress. Distinct environmental cues lead to activation of gliding motility and have become a prominent focus of recent investigation. Progress has been made toward understanding what environmental cues are sensed and how these signals are transduced in order to regulate the machinery and cellular events powering gliding motility. In this review, we will discuss new findings and integrate these into our current understanding to propose a model of how environmental sensing is achieved to regulate gliding motility in Toxoplasma. Collectively, these findings also have implications for the understanding of gliding motility across Apicomplexa more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro D Uboldi
- Division of Infectious Disease and Immune Defense, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,The Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mary-Louise Wilde
- Division of Infectious Disease and Immune Defense, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,The Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stefanie M Bader
- Division of Infectious Disease and Immune Defense, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher J Tonkin
- Division of Infectious Disease and Immune Defense, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,The Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Montenegro VN, Paoletta MS, Jaramillo Ortiz JM, Suarez CE, Wilkowsky SE. Identification and characterization of a Babesia bigemina thrombospondin-related superfamily member, TRAP-1: a novel antigen containing neutralizing epitopes involved in merozoite invasion. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:602. [PMID: 33261638 PMCID: PMC7705850 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04469-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thrombospondin-related anonymous protein (TRAP) has been described as a potential vaccine candidate for several diseases caused by apicomplexan parasites. However, this protein and members of this family have not yet been characterized in Babesia bigemina, one of the most prevalent species causing bovine babesiosis. Methods The 3186-bp Babesia bigemina TRAP-1 (BbiTRAP-1) gene was identified by a bioinformatics search using the B. bovis TRAP-1 sequence. Members of the TRAP and TRAP-related protein families (TRP) were identified in Babesia and Theileria through a search of the TSP-1 adhesive domain, which is the hallmark motif in both proteins. Structural modeling and phylogenetic analysis were performed with the identified TRAP proteins. A truncated recombinant BbiTRAP-1 that migrates at approximately 107 kDa and specific antisera were produced and used in Western blot analysis and indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFAT). B-cell epitopes with neutralizing activity in BbiTRAP-1 were defined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and invasion assays. Results Three members of the TRAP family of proteins were identified in B. bigemina (BbiTRAP-1 to -3). All are type 1 transmembrane proteins containing the von Willebrand factor A (vWFA), thrombospondin type 1 (TSP-1), and cytoplasmic C-terminus domains, as well as transmembrane regions. The BbiTRAP-1 predicted structure also contains a metal ion-dependent adhesion site for interaction with the host cell. The TRP family in Babesia and Theileria species contains the canonical TSP-1 domain but lacks the vWFA domain and together with TRAP define a novel gene superfamily. A variable number of tandem repeat units are present in BbiTRAP-1 and could be used for strain genotyping. Western blot and IFAT analysis confirmed the expression of BbiTRAP-1 by blood-stage parasites. Partial recognition by a panel of sera from B. bigemina-infected cattle in ELISAs using truncated BbiTRAP-1 suggests that this protein is not an immunodominant antigen. Additionally, bovine anti-recombinant BbiTRAP-1 antibodies were found to be capable of neutralizing merozoite invasion in vitro. Conclusions We have identified the TRAP and TRP gene families in several Babesia and Theileria species and characterized BbiTRAP-1 as a novel antigen of B. bigemina. The functional relevance and presence of neutralization-sensitive B-cell epitopes suggest that BbiTRAP-1 could be included in tests for future vaccine candidates against B. bigemina.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Noely Montenegro
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) (INTA-CONICET), De Los Reseros y Dr. Nicolás Repetto s/N, P.O. Box 25, B1712WAA, Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martina Soledad Paoletta
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) (INTA-CONICET), De Los Reseros y Dr. Nicolás Repetto s/N, P.O. Box 25, B1712WAA, Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - José M Jaramillo Ortiz
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) (INTA-CONICET), De Los Reseros y Dr. Nicolás Repetto s/N, P.O. Box 25, B1712WAA, Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos E Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA.,Animal Disease Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), Washington State University, 3003 ADBF, P.O. Box 646630, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Silvina Elizabeth Wilkowsky
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) (INTA-CONICET), De Los Reseros y Dr. Nicolás Repetto s/N, P.O. Box 25, B1712WAA, Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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121
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Hunter ES, Paight C, Lane CE. Metabolic Contributions of an Alphaproteobacterial Endosymbiont in the Apicomplexan Cardiosporidium cionae. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:580719. [PMID: 33335517 PMCID: PMC7737231 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.580719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexa is a diverse protistan phylum composed almost exclusively of metazoan-infecting parasites, including the causative agents of malaria, cryptosporidiosis, and toxoplasmosis. A single apicomplexan genus, Nephromyces, was described in 2010 as a mutualist partner to its tunicate host. Here we present genomic and transcriptomic data from the parasitic sister species to this mutualist, Cardiosporidium cionae, and its associated bacterial endosymbiont. Cardiosporidium cionae and Nephromyces both infect tunicate hosts, localize to similar organs within these hosts, and maintain bacterial endosymbionts. Though many other protists are known to harbor bacterial endosymbionts, these associations are completely unknown in Apicomplexa outside of the Nephromycidae clade. Our data indicate that a vertically transmitted α-proteobacteria has been retained in each lineage since Nephromyces and Cardiosporidium diverged. This α-proteobacterial endosymbiont has highly reduced metabolic capabilities, but contributes the essential amino acid lysine, and essential cofactor lipoic acid to C. cionae. This partnership likely reduces resource competition with the tunicate host. However, our data indicate that the contribution of the single α-proteobacterial endosymbiont in C. cionae is minimal compared to the three taxa of endosymbionts present in the Nephromyces system, and is a potential explanation for the virulence disparity between these lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Sage Hunter
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Christopher Paight
- Department of Ecology, Evolution & Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Christopher E. Lane
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
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Delgado ILS, Carmona B, Nolasco S, Santos D, Leitão A, Soares H. MOB: Pivotal Conserved Proteins in Cytokinesis, Cell Architecture and Tissue Homeostasis. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9120413. [PMID: 33255245 PMCID: PMC7761452 DOI: 10.3390/biology9120413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The MOB family proteins are constituted by highly conserved eukaryote kinase signal adaptors that are often essential both for cell and organism survival. Historically, MOB family proteins have been described as kinase activators participating in Hippo and Mitotic Exit Network/ Septation Initiation Network (MEN/SIN) signaling pathways that have central roles in regulating cytokinesis, cell polarity, cell proliferation and cell fate to control organ growth and regeneration. In metazoans, MOB proteins act as central signal adaptors of the core kinase module MST1/2, LATS1/2, and NDR1/2 kinases that phosphorylate the YAP/TAZ transcriptional co-activators, effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway. More recently, MOBs have been shown to also have non-kinase partners and to be involved in cilia biology, indicating that its activity and regulation is more diverse than expected. In this review, we explore the possible ancestral role of MEN/SIN pathways on the built-in nature of a more complex and functionally expanded Hippo pathway, by focusing on the most conserved components of these pathways, the MOB proteins. We discuss the current knowledge of MOBs-regulated signaling, with emphasis on its evolutionary history and role in morphogenesis, cytokinesis, and cell polarity from unicellular to multicellular organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês L. S. Delgado
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal or (I.L.S.D.); or (S.N.); (D.S.); (A.L.)
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Carmona
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal; or
- Centro de Química Estrutural–Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia Nolasco
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal or (I.L.S.D.); or (S.N.); (D.S.); (A.L.)
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal; or
| | - Dulce Santos
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal or (I.L.S.D.); or (S.N.); (D.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Alexandre Leitão
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal or (I.L.S.D.); or (S.N.); (D.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Helena Soares
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal; or
- Centro de Química Estrutural–Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: or
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Attias M, Teixeira DE, Benchimol M, Vommaro RC, Crepaldi PH, De Souza W. The life-cycle of Toxoplasma gondii reviewed using animations. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:588. [PMID: 33228743 PMCID: PMC7686686 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, an infection with high prevalence worldwide. Most of the infected individuals are either asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, but T. gondii can cause severe neurologic damage and even death of the fetus when acquired during pregnancy. It is also a serious condition in immunodeficient patients. The life-cycle of T. gondii is complex, with more than one infective form and several transmission pathways. In two animated videos, we describe the main aspects of this cycle, raising questions about poorly or unknown issues of T. gondii biology. Original plates, based on electron microscope observations, are also available for teachers, students and researchers. The main goal of this review is to provide a source of learning on the fundamental aspects of T. gondii biology to students and teachers contributing for better knowledge and control on this important parasite, and unique cell model. In addition, drawings and videos point to still unclear aspects of T. gondii lytic cycle that may stimulate further studies.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Attias
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. .,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Rossiane C Vommaro
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Paulo Henrique Crepaldi
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Wanderley De Souza
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Barylyuk K, Koreny L, Ke H, Butterworth S, Crook OM, Lassadi I, Gupta V, Tromer E, Mourier T, Stevens TJ, Breckels LM, Pain A, Lilley KS, Waller RF. A Comprehensive Subcellular Atlas of the Toxoplasma Proteome via hyperLOPIT Provides Spatial Context for Protein Functions. Cell Host Microbe 2020; 28:752-766.e9. [PMID: 33053376 PMCID: PMC7670262 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2020.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites cause major human disease and food insecurity. They owe their considerable success to highly specialized cell compartments and structures. These adaptations drive their recognition, nondestructive penetration, and elaborate reengineering of the host's cells to promote their growth, dissemination, and the countering of host defenses. The evolution of unique apicomplexan cellular compartments is concomitant with vast proteomic novelty. Consequently, half of apicomplexan proteins are unique and uncharacterized. Here, we determine the steady-state subcellular location of thousands of proteins simultaneously within the globally prevalent apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This provides unprecedented comprehensive molecular definition of these unicellular eukaryotes and their specialized compartments, and these data reveal the spatial organizations of protein expression and function, adaptation to hosts, and the underlying evolutionary trajectories of these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ludek Koreny
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Huiling Ke
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Simon Butterworth
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Oliver M Crook
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB20 0AW, UK; MRC Biostatistics Unit, Cambridge Institute for Public Health, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Imen Lassadi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Vipul Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Eelco Tromer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Tobias Mourier
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tim J Stevens
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Lisa M Breckels
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB20 0AW, UK
| | - Arnab Pain
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia; Global Station for Zoonosis Control, Gi-CoRE, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan; Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NDCLS), University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kathryn S Lilley
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB20 0AW, UK
| | - Ross F Waller
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK.
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125
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Velle KB, Fritz-Laylin LK. Conserved actin machinery drives microtubule-independent motility and phagocytosis in Naegleria. J Cell Biol 2020; 219:e202007158. [PMID: 32960946 PMCID: PMC7594500 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202007158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of our understanding of actin-driven phenotypes in eukaryotes has come from the "yeast-to-human" opisthokont lineage and the related amoebozoa. Outside of these groups lies the genus Naegleria, which shared a common ancestor with humans >1 billion years ago and includes the "brain-eating amoeba." Unlike nearly all other known eukaryotic cells, Naegleria amoebae lack interphase microtubules; this suggests that actin alone drives phenotypes like cell crawling and phagocytosis. Naegleria therefore represents a powerful system to probe actin-driven functions in the absence of microtubules, yet surprisingly little is known about its actin cytoskeleton. Using genomic analysis, microscopy, and molecular perturbations, we show that Naegleria encodes conserved actin nucleators and builds Arp2/3-dependent lamellar protrusions. These protrusions correlate with the capacity to migrate and eat bacteria. Because human cells also use Arp2/3-dependent lamellar protrusions for motility and phagocytosis, this work supports an evolutionarily ancient origin for these processes and establishes Naegleria as a natural model system for studying microtubule-independent cytoskeletal phenotypes.
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126
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Ueti MW, Johnson WC, Kappmeyer LS, Herndon DR, Mousel MR, Reif KE, Taus NS, Ifeonu OO, Silva JC, Suarez CE, Brayton KA. Comparative analysis of gene expression between Babesia bovis blood stages and kinetes allowed by improved genome annotation. Int J Parasitol 2020; 51:123-136. [PMID: 33069745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Throughout their life cycle, Babesia parasites alternate between a mammalian host, where they cause babesiosis, and the tick vector. Transition between hosts results in distinct environmental signals that influence patterns of gene expression, consistent with the morphological and functional changes operating in the parasites during their life stages. In addition, comparing differential patterns of gene expression among mammalian and tick parasite stages can provide clues for developing improved methods of control. Hereby, we upgraded the genome assembly of Babesia bovis, a bovine hemoparasite, closing a 139 kbp gap, and used RNA-Seq datasets derived from mammalian blood and tick kinete stages to update the genome annotation. Of the originally annotated genes, 1,254 required structural changes, and 326 new genes were identified, leading to a different predicted proteome compared to the original annotation. Next, the RNA-Seq data was used to identify B. bovis genes that were differentially expressed in the vertebrate and arthropod hosts. In blood stages, 28% of the genes were upregulated up to 300 fold, whereas 26% of the genes in kinetes, a tick stage, were upregulated up to >19,000 fold. We thus discovered differentially expressed genes that may play key biological roles and serve as suitable targets for the development of vaccines to control bovine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massaro W Ueti
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA; Program in Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA; Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.
| | | | | | - David R Herndon
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Michelle R Mousel
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA; Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Kathryn E Reif
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA; Program in Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Naomi S Taus
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA; Program in Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Olukemi O Ifeonu
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joana C Silva
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carlos E Suarez
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, USDA-ARS, Pullman, Washington, USA; Program in Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Kelly A Brayton
- Program in Vector-borne Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA; Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.
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127
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Nie LB, Liang QL, Elsheikha HM, Du R, Zhu XQ, Li FC. Global profiling of lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylome in Toxoplasma gondii using affinity purification mass spectrometry. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:4061-4071. [PMID: 33057814 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06923-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation (Khib) is a recently discovered and evolutionarily conserved form of protein post-translational modification (PTM) found in mammalian and yeast cells. Previous studies have shown that Khib plays roles in the activity of gene transcription and Khib-containing proteins are closely related to the cellular metabolism. In this study, a global Khib-containing analysis using the latest databases (ToxoDB 46, 8322 sequences, downloaded on April 16, 2020) and sensitive immune-affinity enrichment coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was performed. A total of 1078 Khib modification sites across 400 Khib-containing proteins were identified in tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii RH strain. Bioinformatics and functional enrichment analysis showed that Khib-modified proteins were associated with various biological processes, such as ribosome, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and central carbon metabolism. Interestingly, many proteins of the secretory organelles (e.g., microneme, rhoptry, and dense granule) that play roles in the infection cycle of T. gondii were found to be Khib-modified, suggesting the involvement of Khib in key biological process during T. gondii infection. We also found that histone proteins, key enzymes related to cellular metabolism, and several glideosome components had Khib sites. These results expanded our understanding of the roles of Khib in T. gondii and should promote further investigations of how Khib regulates gene expression and key biological functions in T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Bi Nie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin-Li Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Rui Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801, Shanxi Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Fa-Cai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
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128
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Pazicky S, Dhamotharan K, Kaszuba K, Mertens HDT, Gilberger T, Svergun D, Kosinski J, Weininger U, Löw C. Structural role of essential light chains in the apicomplexan glideosome. Commun Biol 2020; 3:568. [PMID: 33051581 PMCID: PMC7555893 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01283-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliding, a type of motility based on an actin-myosin motor, is specific to apicomplexan parasites. Myosin A binds two light chains which further interact with glideosome associated proteins and assemble into the glideosome. The role of individual glideosome proteins is unclear due to the lack of structures of larger glideosome assemblies. Here, we investigate the role of essential light chains (ELCs) in Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum and present their crystal structures as part of trimeric sub-complexes. We show that although ELCs bind a conserved MyoA sequence, P. falciparum ELC adopts a distinct structure in the free and MyoA-bound state. We suggest that ELCs enhance MyoA performance by inducing secondary structure in MyoA and thus stiffen its lever arm. Structural and biophysical analysis reveals that calcium binding has no influence on the structure of ELCs. Our work represents a further step towards understanding the mechanism of gliding in Apicomplexa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Pazicky
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karthikeyan Dhamotharan
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karol Kaszuba
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Haydyn D T Mertens
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Gilberger
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Strasse 74, D-20359, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitri Svergun
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Kosinski
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Weininger
- Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Institute of Physics, Biophysics, D-06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christian Löw
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg Unit c/o Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg, Germany.
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129
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Moussaoui D, Robblee JP, Auguin D, Krementsova EB, Haase S, Blake TCA, Baum J, Robert-Paganin J, Trybus KM, Houdusse A. Full-length Plasmodium falciparum myosin A and essential light chain PfELC structures provide new anti-malarial targets. eLife 2020; 9:e60581. [PMID: 33046215 PMCID: PMC7553781 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasites from the genus Plasmodium are the causative agents of malaria. The mobility, infectivity, and ultimately pathogenesis of Plasmodium falciparum rely on a macromolecular complex, called the glideosome. At the core of the glideosome is an essential and divergent Myosin A motor (PfMyoA), a first order drug target against malaria. Here, we present the full-length structure of PfMyoA in two states of its motor cycle. We report novel interactions that are essential for motor priming and the mode of recognition of its two light chains (PfELC and MTIP) by two degenerate IQ motifs. Kinetic and motility assays using PfMyoA variants, along with molecular dynamics, demonstrate how specific priming and atypical sequence adaptations tune the motor's mechano-chemical properties. Supported by evidence for an essential role of the PfELC in malaria pathogenesis, these structures provide a blueprint for the design of future anti-malarials targeting both the glideosome motor and its regulatory elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dihia Moussaoui
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Paris Université Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144ParisFrance
| | - James P Robblee
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of VermontBurlingtonUnited States
| | - Daniel Auguin
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Ligneux et des Grandes Cultures (LBLGC), Université d’Orléans, INRAE, USC1328OrléansFrance
| | - Elena B Krementsova
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of VermontBurlingtonUnited States
| | - Silvia Haase
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South KensingtonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Thomas CA Blake
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South KensingtonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Jake Baum
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South KensingtonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Julien Robert-Paganin
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Paris Université Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144ParisFrance
| | - Kathleen M Trybus
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of VermontBurlingtonUnited States
| | - Anne Houdusse
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Paris Université Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144ParisFrance
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130
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Blake TCA, Haase S, Baum J. Actomyosin forces and the energetics of red blood cell invasion by the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1009007. [PMID: 33104759 PMCID: PMC7644091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
All symptoms of malaria disease are associated with the asexual blood stages of development, involving cycles of red blood cell (RBC) invasion and egress by the Plasmodium spp. merozoite. Merozoite invasion is rapid and is actively powered by a parasite actomyosin motor. The current accepted model for actomyosin force generation envisages arrays of parasite myosins, pushing against short actin filaments connected to the external milieu that drive the merozoite forwards into the RBC. In Plasmodium falciparum, the most virulent human malaria species, Myosin A (PfMyoA) is critical for parasite replication. However, the precise function of PfMyoA in invasion, its regulation, the role of other myosins and overall energetics of invasion remain unclear. Here, we developed a conditional mutagenesis strategy combined with live video microscopy to probe PfMyoA function and that of the auxiliary motor PfMyoB in invasion. By imaging conditional mutants with increasing defects in force production, based on disruption to a key PfMyoA phospho-regulation site, the absence of the PfMyoA essential light chain, or complete motor absence, we define three distinct stages of incomplete RBC invasion. These three defects reveal three energetic barriers to successful entry: RBC deformation (pre-entry), mid-invasion initiation, and completion of internalisation, each requiring an active parasite motor. In defining distinct energetic barriers to invasion, these data illuminate the mechanical challenges faced in this remarkable process of protozoan parasitism, highlighting distinct myosin functions and identifying potential targets for preventing malaria pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. A. Blake
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, United Kingdom
| | - Silvia Haase
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jake Baum
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, United Kingdom
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131
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The Riveting Cellular Structures of Apicomplexan Parasites. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:979-991. [PMID: 33011071 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic protozoa of the phylum Apicomplexa cause a range of human and animal diseases. Their complex life cycles - often heteroxenous with sexual and asexual phases in different hosts - rely on elaborate cytoskeletal structures to enable morphogenesis and motility, organize cell division, and withstand diverse environmental forces. This review primarily focuses on studies using Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium spp. as the best studied apicomplexans; however, many cytoskeletal adaptations are broadly conserved and predate the emergence of the parasitic phylum. After decades cataloguing the constituents of such structures, a dynamic picture is emerging of the assembly and maintenance of apicomplexan cytoskeletons, illuminating how they template and orient critical processes during infection. These observations impact our view of eukaryotic diversity and offer future challenges for cell biology.
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132
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Jaroenlak P, Cammer M, Davydov A, Sall J, Usmani M, Liang FX, Ekiert DC, Bhabha G. 3-Dimensional organization and dynamics of the microsporidian polar tube invasion machinery. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008738. [PMID: 32946515 PMCID: PMC7526891 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia, a divergent group of single-celled eukaryotic parasites, harness a specialized harpoon-like invasion apparatus called the polar tube (PT) to gain entry into host cells. The PT is tightly coiled within the transmissible extracellular spore, and is about 20 times the length of the spore. Once triggered, the PT is rapidly ejected and is thought to penetrate the host cell, acting as a conduit for the transfer of infectious cargo into the host. The organization of this specialized infection apparatus in the spore, how it is deployed, and how the nucleus and other large cargo are transported through the narrow PT are not well understood. Here we use serial block-face scanning electron microscopy to reveal the 3-dimensional architecture of the PT and its relative spatial orientation to other organelles within the spore. Using high-speed optical microscopy, we also capture and quantify the entire PT germination process of three human-infecting microsporidian species in vitro: Anncaliia algerae, Encephalitozoon hellem and E. intestinalis. Our results show that the emerging PT experiences very high accelerating forces to reach velocities exceeding 300 μm⋅s-1, and that firing kinetics differ markedly between species. Live-cell imaging reveals that the nucleus, which is at least 7 times larger than the diameter of the PT, undergoes extreme deformation to fit through the narrow tube, and moves at speeds comparable to PT extension. Our study sheds new light on the 3-dimensional organization, dynamics, and mechanism of PT extrusion, and shows how infectious cargo moves through the tube to initiate infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattana Jaroenlak
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Michael Cammer
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Alina Davydov
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Joseph Sall
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mahrukh Usmani
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Feng-Xia Liang
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Damian C. Ekiert
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Gira Bhabha
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
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133
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Song X, Yang X, Xue Y, Yang C, Wu K, Liu J, Liu Q. Glutaredoxin 1 Deficiency Leads to Microneme Protein-Mediated Growth Defects in Neospora caninum. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:536044. [PMID: 32983074 PMCID: PMC7487798 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.536044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that infects a wide range of mammalian species and causes spontaneous abortion in cattle. N. caninum is exposed to oxidative stress during its life cycle. Oxidoreductase is crucial for parasite response to the environmental stresses. Glutaredoxins (Grxs) are small oxidoreductases of the thioredoxin family proteins that catalyze thiol-disulfide exchange reactions by utilizing electrons from the tripeptide glutathione (γGlu-Cys-Gly; GSH). Grxs are key elements in redox signaling and cell signal transduction. However, Grxs are an unexplored set of oxidoreductases in N. caninum. Here, we identified two cytoplasm located glutaredoxin domain-containing proteins (NcGrx1 and NcGrx3) in N. caninum. To better understand the functions of these Grx proteins, we generated NcGrx1 and NcGrx3 deficiency and overexpression strains. The deletion or overexpression of NcGrx3 had no significant effect on the growth of N. caninum in vitro and in vivo. NcGrx1 knockout parasites displayed a significant growth defect, which was due to the influence on invasion and egress abilities. Moreover, NcGrx1 deficiency decreased the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) (GSH/GSSG ratio), caused a significant accumulation of hydroxyl radical in parasites, and an increase in apoptotic cells under oxidative stress (H2O2) condition. To determine the cause of growth defects in ΔNcGrx1, we examined the transcription levels of various invasion-egress related genes as measured by qPCR. We found a significant decrease in MIC1, MIC4, and MIC6 genes. Further investigation found that the secretion of MIC1, MIC4, and MIC6 proteins was significantly affected. Collectively, Ncgrx1 is important for microneme protein-mediated parasite growth, and maybe a potential intervention target for the N. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingju Song
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Yang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yangfei Xue
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Congshan Yang
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Kaijian Wu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Qun Liu
- National Animal Protozoa Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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134
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Dos Santos Pacheco N, Tosetti N, Koreny L, Waller RF, Soldati-Favre D. Evolution, Composition, Assembly, and Function of the Conoid in Apicomplexa. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:688-704. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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135
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Baker TL, Sun M, Semple BD, Tyebji S, Tonkin CJ, Mychasiuk R, Shultz SR. Catastrophic consequences: can the feline parasite Toxoplasma gondii prompt the purrfect neuroinflammatory storm following traumatic brain injury? J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:222. [PMID: 32711529 PMCID: PMC7382044 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01885-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide; however, treatment development is hindered by the heterogenous nature of TBI presentation and pathophysiology. In particular, the degree of neuroinflammation after TBI varies between individuals and may be modified by other factors such as infection. Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that infects approximately one-third of the world’s population, has a tropism for brain tissue and can persist as a life-long infection. Importantly, there is notable overlap in the pathophysiology between TBI and T. gondii infection, including neuroinflammation. This paper will review current understandings of the clinical problems, pathophysiological mechanisms, and functional outcomes of TBI and T. gondii, before considering the potential synergy between the two conditions. In particular, the discussion will focus on neuroinflammatory processes such as microglial activation, inflammatory cytokines, and peripheral immune cell recruitment that occur during T. gondii infection and after TBI. We will present the notion that these overlapping pathologies in TBI individuals with a chronic T. gondii infection have the strong potential to exacerbate neuroinflammation and related brain damage, leading to amplified functional deficits. The impact of chronic T. gondii infection on TBI should therefore be investigated in both preclinical and clinical studies as the possible interplay could influence treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara L Baker
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, 6th Floor, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Mujun Sun
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, 6th Floor, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Bridgette D Semple
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, 6th Floor, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Shiraz Tyebji
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Defence, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher J Tonkin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Defence, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Richelle Mychasiuk
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, 6th Floor, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Sandy R Shultz
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, 6th Floor, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia. .,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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136
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Smith JR, Ashander LM, Arruda SL, Cordeiro CA, Lie S, Rochet E, Belfort R, Furtado JM. Pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 81:100882. [PMID: 32717377 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ocular toxoplasmosis is a retinitis -almost always accompanied by vitritis and choroiditis- caused by intraocular infection with Toxoplasma gondii. Depending on retinal location, this condition may cause substantial vision impairment. T. gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, with both sexual and asexual life cycles, and infection is typically contracted orally by consuming encysted bradyzoites in undercooked meat, or oocysts on unwashed garden produce or in contaminated water. Presently available anti-parasitic drugs cannot eliminate T. gondii from the body. In vitro studies using T. gondii tachyzoites, and human retinal cells and tissue have provided important insights into the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis. T. gondii may cross the vascular endothelium to access human retina by at least three routes: in leukocyte taxis; as a transmigrating tachyzoite; and after infecting endothelial cells. The parasite is capable of navigating the human neuroretina, gaining access to a range of cell populations. Retinal Müller glial cells are preferred initial host cells. T. gondii infection of the retinal pigment epithelial cells alters the secretion of growth factors and induces proliferation of adjacent uninfected epithelial cells. This increases susceptibility of the cells to parasite infection, and may be the basis of the characteristic hyperpigmented toxoplasmic retinal lesion. Infected epithelial cells also generate a vigorous immunologic response, and influence the activity of leukocytes that infiltrate the retina. A range of T. gondii genotypes are associated with human ocular toxoplasmosis, and individual immunogenetics -including polymorphisms in genes encoding innate immune receptors, human leukocyte antigens and cytokines- impacts the clinical manifestations. Research into basic pathogenic mechanisms of ocular toxoplasmosis highlights the importance of prevention and suggests new biological drug targets for established disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine R Smith
- Eye & Vision Health and Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Flinders University College of Medicine & Public Health, Adelaide, Australia; Formerly of Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, USA.
| | - Liam M Ashander
- Eye & Vision Health and Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Flinders University College of Medicine & Public Health, Adelaide, Australia; Formerly of Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, USA
| | - Sigrid L Arruda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Cynthia A Cordeiro
- Cordeiro et Costa Ophtalmologie, Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil; Formerly of Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of Minas Gerais School of Medicine, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Shervi Lie
- Eye & Vision Health and Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Flinders University College of Medicine & Public Health, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Elise Rochet
- Eye & Vision Health and Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Flinders University College of Medicine & Public Health, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rubens Belfort
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João M Furtado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil; Formerly of Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, USA
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137
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Herneisen AL, Sidik SM, Markus BM, Drewry DH, Zuercher WJ, Lourido S. Identifying the Target of an Antiparasitic Compound in Toxoplasma Using Thermal Proteome Profiling. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:1801-1807. [PMID: 32597628 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites include the causative agents of malaria and toxoplasmosis. Cell-based screens in Toxoplasma previously identified a chemical modulator of calcium signaling (ENH1) that blocked parasite egress from host cells and exhibited potent antiparasitic activity. To identify the targets of ENH1, we adapted thermal proteome profiling to Toxoplasma, which revealed calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (CDPK1) as a target. We confirmed the inhibition of CDPK1 by ENH1 in vitro and in parasites by comparing alleles sensitive or resistant to ENH1. CDPK1 inhibition explained the block in egress; however, the effects of ENH1 on calcium homeostasis and parasite viability were CDPK1-independent, implicating additional targets. Thermal proteome profiling of lysates from parasites expressing the resistant allele of CDPK1 identified additional candidates associated with the mitochondria and the parasite pellicle-compartments that potentially function in calcium release and homeostasis. Our findings illustrate the promise of thermal profiling to identify druggable targets that modulate calcium signaling in apicomplexan parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice L. Herneisen
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 30 Ames St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Saima M. Sidik
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Benedikt M. Markus
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, Freiburg 79104, Germany
| | - David H. Drewry
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - William J. Zuercher
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Sebastian Lourido
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 30 Ames St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main St, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
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138
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Bisio H, Soldati-Favre D. Signaling Cascades Governing Entry into and Exit from Host Cells by Toxoplasma gondii. Annu Rev Microbiol 2020; 73:579-599. [PMID: 31500539 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-020518-120235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The Apicomplexa phylum includes a large group of obligate intracellular protozoan parasites responsible for important diseases in humans and animals. Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread parasite with considerable versatility, and it is capable of infecting virtually any warm-blooded animal, including humans. This outstanding success can be attributed at least in part to an efficient and continuous sensing of the environment, with a ready-to-adapt strategy. This review updates the current understanding of the signals governing the lytic cycle of T. gondii, with particular focus on egress from infected cells, a key step for balancing survival, multiplication, and spreading in the host. We cover the recent advances in the conceptual framework of regulation of microneme exocytosis that ensures egress, motility, and invasion. Particular emphasis is given to the trigger molecules and signaling cascades regulating exit from host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Bisio
- Département de Microbiologie et Médecine Moléculaire, Centre Médical Universitaire, Université de Genève, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland;
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Département de Microbiologie et Médecine Moléculaire, Centre Médical Universitaire, Université de Genève, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland;
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139
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Portes J, Barrias E, Travassos R, Attias M, de Souza W. Toxoplasma gondii Mechanisms of Entry Into Host Cells. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:294. [PMID: 32714877 PMCID: PMC7340009 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite. Toxoplasma can invade and multiply inside any nucleated cell of a wide range of homeothermic hosts. The canonical process of internalization involves several steps: an initial recognition of the host cell surface and a sequential secretion of proteins from micronemes followed by rhoptries that assemble a macromolecular complex constituting a specialized and transient moving junction. The parasite is then internalized via an endocytic process with the establishment of a parasitophorous vacuole (PV), that does not fuse with lysosomes, where the parasites survive and multiply. This process of host cell invasion is usually referred to active penetration. Using different cell types and inhibitors of distinct endocytic pathways, we show that treatment of host cells with compounds that interfere with clathrin-mediated endocytosis (hypertonic sucrose medium, chlorpromazine hydrochloride, and pitstop 2 inhibited the internalization of tachyzoites). In addition, treatments that interfere with macropinocytosis, such as incubation with amiloride or IPA-3, increased parasite attachment to the host cell surface but significantly blocked parasite internalization. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that markers of macropinocytosis, such as the Rab5 effector rabankyrin 5 and Pak1, are associated with parasite-containing cytoplasmic vacuoles. These results indicate that entrance of T. gondii into mammalian cells can take place both by the well-characterized interaction of parasite and host cell endocytic machinery and other processes, such as the clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and macropinocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Portes
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Emile Barrias
- Laboratório de Metrologia Aplicada à Ciências da Vida, Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia- Inmetro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renata Travassos
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Márcia Attias
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Wanderley de Souza
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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140
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Pavlou G, Touquet B, Vigetti L, Renesto P, Bougdour A, Debarre D, Balland M, Tardieux I. Coupling Polar Adhesion with Traction, Spring, and Torque Forces Allows High-Speed Helical Migration of the Protozoan Parasite Toxoplasma. ACS NANO 2020; 14:7121-7139. [PMID: 32432851 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c01893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Among the eukaryotic cells that navigate through fully developed metazoan tissues, protozoans from the Apicomplexa phylum have evolved motile developmental stages that move much faster than the fastest crawling cells owing to a peculiar substrate-dependent type of motility, known as gliding. Best-studied models are the Plasmodium sporozoite and the Toxoplasma tachyzoite polarized cells for which motility is vital to achieve their developmental programs in the metazoan hosts. The gliding machinery is shared between the two parasites and is largely characterized. Localized beneath the cell surface, it includes actin filaments, unconventional myosin motors housed within a multimember glideosome unit, and apically secreted transmembrane adhesins. In contrast, less is known about the force mechanisms powering cell movement. Pioneered biophysical studies on the sporozoite and phenotypic analysis of tachyzoite actin-related mutants have added complexity to the general view that force production for parasite forward movement directly results from the myosin-driven rearward motion of the actin-coupled adhesion sites. Here, we have interrogated how forces and substrate adhesion-de-adhesion cycles operate and coordinate to allow the typical left-handed helical gliding mode of the tachyzoite. By combining quantitative traction force and reflection interference microscopy with micropatterning and expansion microscopy, we unveil at the millisecond and nanometer scales the integration of a critical apical anchoring adhesion with specific traction and spring-like forces. We propose that the acto-myoA motor directs the traction force which allows transient energy storage by the microtubule cytoskeleton and therefore sets the thrust force required for T. gondii tachyzoite vital helical gliding capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Pavlou
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Membrane Dynamics of Parasite-Host Cell Interactions, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Bastien Touquet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Membrane Dynamics of Parasite-Host Cell Interactions, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Luis Vigetti
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Membrane Dynamics of Parasite-Host Cell Interactions, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Patricia Renesto
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Membrane Dynamics of Parasite-Host Cell Interactions, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
- TIMC-IMAG UMR 5525 - UGA CNRS, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Alexandre Bougdour
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infections, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
| | - Delphine Debarre
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique, UMR CNRS, 5588, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38402, France
| | - Martial Balland
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique, UMR CNRS, 5588, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38402, France
| | - Isabelle Tardieux
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Team Membrane Dynamics of Parasite-Host Cell Interactions, CNRS UMR5309, INSERM U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38700 Grenoble, France
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141
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Janetka JW, Hopper AT, Yang Z, Barks J, Dhason MS, Wang Q, Sibley LD. Optimizing Pyrazolopyrimidine Inhibitors of Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 1 for Treatment of Acute and Chronic Toxoplasmosis. J Med Chem 2020; 63:6144-6163. [PMID: 32420739 PMCID: PMC7325724 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Calcium dependent protein kinase 1 (CDPK1) is an essential Ser/Thr kinase that controls invasion and egress by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The Gly gatekeeper of CDPK1 makes it exquisitely sensitive to inhibition by small molecule 1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine-4-amine (PP) compounds that are bulky ATP mimetics. Here we rationally designed, synthesized, and tested a series of novel PP analogs that were evaluated for inhibition of CDPK1 enzyme activity in vitro and parasite growth in cell culture. Optimal substitution on the PP scaffold included 2-pyridyl ethers directed into the hydrophobic pocket and small carbocyclic rings accessing the ribose-binding pocket. Further optimization of the series led to identification of the lead compound 3a that displayed excellent potency, selectivity, safety profile, and efficacy in vivo. The results of these studies provide a foundation for further work to optimize CDPK1 inhibitors for the treatment of acute and chronic toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W. Janetka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. MO 63110
| | | | - Ziping Yang
- Vyera Pharmaceuticals, 600 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10016
| | - Jennifer Barks
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. MO 63110
| | - Mary Savari Dhason
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. MO 63110
| | - Qiuling Wang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. MO 63110
| | - L. David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis. MO 63110
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142
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Gubbels MJ, Keroack CD, Dangoudoubiyam S, Worliczek HL, Paul AS, Bauwens C, Elsworth B, Engelberg K, Howe DK, Coppens I, Duraisingh MT. Fussing About Fission: Defining Variety Among Mainstream and Exotic Apicomplexan Cell Division Modes. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:269. [PMID: 32582569 PMCID: PMC7289922 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular reproduction defines life, yet our textbook-level understanding of cell division is limited to a small number of model organisms centered around humans. The horizon on cell division variants is expanded here by advancing insights on the fascinating cell division modes found in the Apicomplexa, a key group of protozoan parasites. The Apicomplexa display remarkable variation in offspring number, whether karyokinesis follows each S/M-phase or not, and whether daughter cells bud in the cytoplasm or bud from the cortex. We find that the terminology used to describe the various manifestations of asexual apicomplexan cell division emphasizes either the number of offspring or site of budding, which are not directly comparable features and has led to confusion in the literature. Division modes have been primarily studied in two human pathogenic Apicomplexa, malaria-causing Plasmodium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii, a major cause of opportunistic infections. Plasmodium spp. divide asexually by schizogony, producing multiple daughters per division round through a cortical budding process, though at several life-cycle nuclear amplifications stages, are not followed by karyokinesis. T. gondii divides by endodyogeny producing two internally budding daughters per division round. Here we add to this diversity in replication mechanisms by considering the cattle parasite Babesia bigemina and the pig parasite Cystoisospora suis. B. bigemina produces two daughters per division round by a “binary fission” mechanism whereas C. suis produces daughters through both endodyogeny and multiple internal budding known as endopolygeny. In addition, we provide new data from the causative agent of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), Sarcocystis neurona, which also undergoes endopolygeny but differs from C. suis by maintaining a single multiploid nucleus. Overall, we operationally define two principally different division modes: internal budding found in cyst-forming Coccidia (comprising endodyogeny and two forms of endopolygeny) and external budding found in the other parasites studied (comprising the two forms of schizogony, binary fission and multiple fission). Progressive insights into the principles defining the molecular and cellular requirements for internal vs. external budding, as well as variations encountered in sexual stages are discussed. The evolutionary pressures and mechanisms underlying apicomplexan cell division diversification carries relevance across Eukaryota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-Jan Gubbels
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | - Caroline D Keroack
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sriveny Dangoudoubiyam
- Department of Veterinary Science, Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Hanna L Worliczek
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States.,Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aditya S Paul
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ciara Bauwens
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | - Brendan Elsworth
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States.,School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Klemens Engelberg
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | - Daniel K Howe
- Department of Veterinary Science, Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Manoj T Duraisingh
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
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143
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Wang X, Qian P, Cui H, Yao L, Yuan J. A protein palmitoylation cascade regulates microtubule cytoskeleton integrity in Plasmodium. EMBO J 2020; 39:e104168. [PMID: 32395856 PMCID: PMC7327484 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2019104168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphogenesis of many protozoans depends on a polarized establishment of cytoskeletal structures. In malaria-causing parasites, this can be observed when a round zygote develops into an elongated motile ookinete within the mosquito stomach. This morphogenesis is mediated by the pellicle cytoskeletal structures, including the inner membrane complex (IMC) and the underlying subpellicular microtubules (SPMs). How the parasite maintains the IMC-SPM connection and establishes a dome-like structure of SPM to support cell elongation is unclear. Here, we show that palmitoylation of N-terminal cysteines of two IMC proteins (ISP1/ISP3) regulates the IMC localization of ISP1/ISP3 and zygote-to-ookinete differentiation. Palmitoylation of ISP1/ISP3 is catalyzed by an IMC-residing palmitoyl-S-acyl-transferase (PAT) DHHC2. Surprisingly, DHHC2 undergoes self-palmitoylation at C-terminal cysteines via its PAT activity, which controls DHHC2 localization in IMC after zygote formation. IMC-anchored ISP1 and ISP3 interact with microtubule component β-tubulin, serving as tethers to maintain the proper structure of SPM during zygote elongation. This study identifies the first PAT-substrate pair in malaria parasites and uncovers a protein palmitoylation cascade regulating microtubule cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signal Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Pengge Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signal Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Huiting Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signal Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Luming Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signal Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signal Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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144
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Tosetti N, Dos Santos Pacheco N, Bertiaux E, Maco B, Bournonville L, Hamel V, Guichard P, Soldati-Favre D. Essential function of the alveolin network in the subpellicular microtubules and conoid assembly in Toxoplasma gondii. eLife 2020; 9:56635. [PMID: 32379047 PMCID: PMC7228768 DOI: 10.7554/elife.56635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The coccidian subgroup of Apicomplexa possesses an apical complex harboring a conoid, made of unique tubulin polymer fibers. This enigmatic organelle extrudes in extracellular invasive parasites and is associated to the apical polar ring (APR). The APR serves as microtubule-organizing center for the 22 subpellicular microtubules (SPMTs) that are linked to a patchwork of flattened vesicles, via an intricate network composed of alveolins. Here, we capitalize on ultrastructure expansion microscopy (U-ExM) to localize the Toxoplasma gondii Apical Cap protein 9 (AC9) and its partner AC10, identified by BioID, to the alveolin network and intercalated between the SPMTs. Parasites conditionally depleted in AC9 or AC10 replicate normally but are defective in microneme secretion and fail to invade and egress from infected cells. Electron microscopy revealed that the mature parasite mutants are conoidless, while U-ExM highlighted the disorganization of the SPMTs which likely results in the catastrophic loss of APR and conoid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Tosetti
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Dos Santos Pacheco
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eloïse Bertiaux
- Department of Cell Biology, Sciences III, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bohumil Maco
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lorène Bournonville
- Department of Cell Biology, Sciences III, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Virginie Hamel
- Department of Cell Biology, Sciences III, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul Guichard
- Department of Cell Biology, Sciences III, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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145
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Meinnel T, Dian C, Giglione C. Myristoylation, an Ancient Protein Modification Mirroring Eukaryogenesis and Evolution. Trends Biochem Sci 2020; 45:619-632. [PMID: 32305250 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
N-myristoylation (MYR) is a crucial fatty acylation catalyzed by N-myristoyltransferases (NMTs) that is likely to have appeared over 2 billion years ago. Proteome-wide approaches have now delivered an exhaustive list of substrates undergoing MYR across approximately 2% of any proteome, with constituents, several unexpected, associated with different membrane compartments. A set of <10 proteins conserved in eukaryotes probably represents the original set of N-myristoylated targets, marking major changes occurring throughout eukaryogenesis. Recent findings have revealed unexpected mechanisms and reactivity, suggesting competition with other acylations that are likely to influence cellular homeostasis and the steady state of the modification landscape. Here, we review recent advances in NMT catalysis, substrate specificity, and MYR proteomics, and discuss concepts regarding MYR during evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Meinnel
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
| | - Cyril Dian
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Carmela Giglione
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
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146
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Boisard J, Florent I. Why the -omic future of Apicomplexa should include gregarines. Biol Cell 2020; 112:173-185. [PMID: 32176937 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202000006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gregarines, a polyphyletic group of apicomplexan parasites infecting mostly non-vertebrates hosts, remains poorly known at taxonomic, phylogenetic and genomic levels. However, it represents an essential group for understanding evolutionary history and adaptive capacities of apicomplexan parasites to the remarkable diversity of their hosts. Because they have a mostly extracellular lifestyle, gregarines have developed other cellular developmental forms and host-parasite interactions, compared with their much better studied apicomplexan cousins, intracellular parasites of vertebrates (Hemosporidia, Coccidia, Cryptosporidia). This review highlights the promises offered by the molecular exploration of gregarines, that have been until now left on the side of the road of the comparative -omic exploration of apicomplexan parasites. Elucidating molecular bases for both their ultrastructural, functional and behavioural similarities and differences, compared with those of the typical apicomplexan models, is expected to provide entirely novel clues on the adaptive capacities developed by Apicomplexa over evolution. A challenge remains to identify which gregarines should be explored in priority, as recent metadata from open and host-associated environments have confirmed how underestimated is our current view on true gregarine biodiversity. It is now time to turn to gregarines to widen the currently highly skewed view we have of adaptive mechanisms developed by Apicomplexa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Boisard
- Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Microorganismes (MCAM, UMR 7245), Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Paris, Cedex 05, France.,Structure et instabilité des génomes (STRING UMR 7196 CNRS / INSERM U1154), Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, Cedex 05, France
| | - Isabelle Florent
- Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Microorganismes (MCAM, UMR 7245), Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Paris, Cedex 05, France
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147
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148
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Trivedi DV, Nag S, Spudich A, Ruppel KM, Spudich JA. The Myosin Family of Mechanoenzymes: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Approaches. Annu Rev Biochem 2020; 89:667-693. [PMID: 32169021 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-011520-105234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Myosins are among the most fascinating enzymes in biology. As extremely allosteric chemomechanical molecular machines, myosins are involved in myriad pivotal cellular functions and are frequently sites of mutations leading to disease phenotypes. Human β-cardiac myosin has proved to be an excellent target for small-molecule therapeutics for heart muscle diseases, and, as we describe here, other myosin family members are likely to be potentially unique targets for treating other diseases as well. The first part of this review focuses on how myosins convert the chemical energy of ATP hydrolysis into mechanical movement, followed by a description of existing therapeutic approaches to target human β-cardiac myosin. The next section focuses on the possibility of targeting nonmuscle members of the human myosin family for several diseases. We end the review by describing the roles of myosin in parasites and the therapeutic potential of targeting them to block parasitic invasion of their hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshan V Trivedi
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA; , , .,Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Suman Nag
- MyoKardia Inc., Brisbane, California 94005, USA;
| | - Annamma Spudich
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560-097, India;
| | - Kathleen M Ruppel
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA; , , .,Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA.,Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - James A Spudich
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA; , , .,Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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149
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Horta MF, Andrade LO, Martins-Duarte ÉS, Castro-Gomes T. Cell invasion by intracellular parasites - the many roads to infection. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:133/4/jcs232488. [PMID: 32079731 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.232488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular parasites from the genera Toxoplasma, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Leishmania and from the phylum Microsporidia are, respectively, the causative agents of toxoplasmosis, malaria, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis and microsporidiosis, illnesses that kill millions of people around the globe. Crossing the host cell plasma membrane (PM) is an obstacle these parasites must overcome to establish themselves intracellularly and so cause diseases. The mechanisms of cell invasion are quite diverse and include (1) formation of moving junctions that drive parasites into host cells, as for the protozoans Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium spp., (2) subversion of endocytic pathways used by the host cell to repair PM, as for Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania, (3) induction of phagocytosis as for Leishmania or (4) endocytosis of parasites induced by specialized structures, such as the polar tubes present in microsporidian species. Understanding the early steps of cell entry is essential for the development of vaccines and drugs for the prevention or treatment of these diseases, and thus enormous research efforts have been made to unveil their underlying biological mechanisms. This Review will focus on these mechanisms and the factors involved, with an emphasis on the recent insights into the cell biology of invasion by these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fátima Horta
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, CEP 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Luciana Oliveira Andrade
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, CEP 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Érica Santos Martins-Duarte
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, CEP 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Thiago Castro-Gomes
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, CEP 31270-901, Brazil
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150
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Albuquerque-Wendt A, Jacot D, Dos Santos Pacheco N, Seegers C, Zarnovican P, Buettner FFR, Bakker H, Soldati-Favre D, Routier FH. C-Mannosylation of Toxoplasma gondii proteins promotes attachment to host cells and parasite virulence. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:1066-1076. [PMID: 31862733 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.010590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
C-Mannosylation is a common modification of thrombospondin type 1 repeats present in metazoans and recently identified also in apicomplexan parasites. This glycosylation is mediated by enzymes of the DPY19 family that transfer α-mannoses to tryptophan residues in the sequence WX 2WX 2C, which is part of the structurally essential tryptophan ladder. Here, deletion of the dpy19 gene in the parasite Toxoplasma gondii abolished C-mannosyltransferase activity and reduced levels of the micronemal protein MIC2. The loss of C-mannosyltransferase activity was associated with weakened parasite adhesion to host cells and with reduced parasite motility, host cell invasion, and parasite egress. Interestingly, the C-mannosyltransferase-deficient Δdpy19 parasites were strongly attenuated in virulence and induced protective immunity in mice. This parasite attenuation could not simply be explained by the decreased MIC2 level and strongly suggests that absence of C-mannosyltransferase activity leads to an insufficient level of additional proteins. In summary, our results indicate that T. gondii C-mannosyltransferase DPY19 is not essential for parasite survival, but is important for adhesion, motility, and virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Damien Jacot
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, CMU, University of Geneva, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Carla Seegers
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry OE4340, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Patricia Zarnovican
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry OE4340, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Falk F R Buettner
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry OE4340, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Hans Bakker
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry OE4340, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, CMU, University of Geneva, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Françoise H Routier
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry OE4340, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
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